The Blues overthrow the All Blacks at the cost of a fierce revolt [vidéo] – Fifteen Oval

In a boiling Stade de France, the Blues triumphed over the All Blacks 30-29 at the end of a thrilling match fought to the end. This third consecutive victory against New Zealand marks a turning point for the French XV, which was able to draw on its resources to turn around a bad situation.

A first half dominated by the All Blacks

The start of the match was clearly to the advantage of the All Blacks. With constant pressure and aggressive play in collisions, the New Zealanders quickly gained the upper hand. Their effectiveness is reflected in two tests, one of which was registered by Peter Lakai from the 10th minute, exploiting a French error. Then, a ball snatched from Grégory Alldritt by Cameron Roigard gave the All Blacks a second try, bringing the score to 3-14.

Led, the French seemed disoriented, but a first start allowed them to respond. Just before the break, Romain Burosnewly selected, finds the opening to score the first French try. This return to 10-17 gives the Blues hope before half-time.

A French revolt in the second half

The men of Fabien Galthié come back with another energy after the break. From the first minutes, they intensified their attacks. On a ball carried five meters from the opposing line, Paul Boudehent flattens and allows France to equalize 17-17.

This new momentum puts the All Blacks under pressure, but it is Louis Bielle-Biarrey which changed the match in the 51st minute. Thanks to a dazzling breakthrough and a kick from Thomas Ramos, the Bordeaux winger escaped to flatten into the in-goal, giving the Blues a precious lead (24-17) and making the Stade de France vibrate.

A heroic defense to preserve the advantage

The end of the match was marked by the defensive intensity of the Blues, determined not to give in anything. Faced with repeated attacks from the All Blacks, each French player redoubled their efforts to block the opposing attempts. Antoine Dupont and his teammates lock their line fiercely, resisting the New Zealand charges which reduce the gap to 30-29 in the last minutes. The French held on until the final whistle, triggering a standing ovation from the 80,000 spectators present.

This symbolic victory confirms the ability of this French XV to reverse critical situations and to compete with the best teams. With this success against the All Blacks, the Blues approach their last tour match against Argentina with increased confidence and newfound momentum before the next Six Nations Tournament.