A year after losing their quarter-final of the World Cup by the narrowest of margins against South Africa, the Blues this time had the small point of difference in their favor. At the end of a peak of intensity, Fabien Galthié's men managed to get the better of New Zealand on Saturday November 16, at the Stade de France (30-29).
Until the end, the match had difficulty choosing its winner, and despite two tries at the start of the second half, the Blues had to deal with eye-catching visitors, determined to sign another prestigious victory after having knocked down blow after blow. suddenly England and Ireland. The Blues avoided the trap, and continued their flawless performance during this autumn tour before a final match against Argentina, Friday November 22.
What to remember from France – New Zealand:
- The cador. Louis Bielle-Biarrey
Already elected man of the match against Japan, the Bordeaux winger once again delivered a captain's performance, almost making us forget that he is only 21 years old and has only 13 caps. There is of course his try after a long run, which he was probably the only one on the team who could score thanks to his speed. But Louis Bielle-Biarrey also impressed in defense and never dropped his level, especially when the pace of the match picked up.
For the third time in a row, the Blues managed to get the better of the All Blacks, each time at the Stade de France. The French XV has not lost to the New Zealanders since a match in 2018, in Dunedin, for what was at the time the 14e consecutive victory for the Blacks over the Tricolores.
Man of the match Thomas Ramos, speaking to TF1: “No matter what period we play the Blacks, it’s always a special match that can put you ahead. We had worked on a lot of things this week, especially these tight ends of matches. I'm proud of the group. »
- The turning point of the match. Returning from the locker room
Enterprising, the Blues nevertheless seemed a notch below in the first act, which they finished with a disbursement of seven points. But the passage through the locker room apparently did the greatest good for Fabien Galthié's men, who built their victory in a few minutes, with tries from Paul Boudehent (44e) and Louis Bielle-Biarrey (51e). Having returned to the lead, the Blues will never be overtaken again.
Why be choosy? There was everything in this meeting: actions, tries, turnarounds and even a victory for the Blues, all in a melting stadium. This match, which was not at all friendly, kept all its promises, and deserves the highest marks!
