After a complicated post-World Cup year, the Blues savored a prestigious victory against New Zealand (30-29) to chase away the ghosts of the past. After all that pressure subsides, Antoine Dupont and Thomas Ramos indulged in a little chambering by interview on the pitch of the Stade de France, Saturday November 16.
RUGBY. Historic audience, the XV of France crushes everything against the All Blacks!
Live on TF1, Stade Toulousain fullback Thomas Ramos, converted to opener during the fall tour, was questioned about Antoine Dupont's level of play. In front of Christian Califano's microphone, the Blues scorer couldn't help but tease his friend:
It's obviously easier to play with Antoine. He's a great player, he scares opposing defenses. They are on him all the time and that gives his teammates more freedom to express themselves. He was clean even if he made a few mistakes out of camp. (smile) But hey, we won’t tell him that. We will tell him Monday at the debrief”
On the TF1 post-match set, captain Antoine Dupont was logically invited to come and debrief the meeting. For the occasion, he also was able to react to his teammate's friendly little dig:
It's comfortable for him, it's me who takes all the games. (smile) But he won't tell me that, I know him. He knows those were the first things I noticed about my match. We’ll discuss it in the showers.”
Visibly, the Toulouse group within the XV of France is living well. It must be said that the red and black team has a significant contingent of players in Marcoussis. Indeed, 11 players were called up to prepare for the 2024 fall tour and no less than 7 of them were present on the match sheet this Saturday.
XV of France. 7 years ago, Antoine Dupont shocked the All Blacks, a memorable first performance
The XV of France overthrow the All Blacks
The French XV defeated New Zealand for the third time in a row, further marking the history of one of the most beautiful generations of French rugby. In Saint-Denis, the best face of the Blues showed itself in the second half.
Because yes, during the first act, Antoine Dupont and his teammates were dominated. Formidable and incisive, the All Blacks took advantage of an overpowering Ardie Savea and a fiery offensive display to take the lead. At halftime, Scott Robertson's men led (10-17).
Back from the locker room, the Blues woke up and overthrew New Zealand. They notably benefited from the boot of Thomas Ramos, but also from a try from Paul Boudehent (44th) and Louis Bielle-Biarrey (51st) to win.
''A Classic'', ''Heroics'', etc. The world press in ecstasy after France – All Blacks
