In Wellington this Saturday, the French XV suffered a real disaster against New Zealand. Beaten 43 to 17, the Blues conceded the heaviest defeat of the Fabien Galthié era, in a match in which they never seemed able to compete. This performance contrasts radically with that of the first test in Dunedin, where the French had put up a strong fight despite the defeat (31-27).
The match quickly turned in the All Blacks' favor. From the opening minutes, New Zealand's intensity stifled the French ambitions. Cameron Roigard scored the first try after fifteen minutes, taking advantage of a listless French defense. Shortly after, a foul by Joshua Brennan, guilty of a dangerous tackle, gave the All Blacks another penalty try. The score was already 24-3 at halftime, and New Zealand's dominance was beyond doubt.
A revamped French XV
Fabien Galthié's choices, who had decided to significantly overhaul his starting XV, did not bear fruit. Only five starters were retained from the first test. The lack of collective guidance was sorely felt, particularly in defense and in managing the conquest phases. Despite a surge in the second half, with a fine try from Léo Barré on the hour mark, France never really worried the All Blacks, who continued to impose their pace, adding other tries, notably through Will Jordan.
This second test highlights the limitations of the French squad, both physically and mentally. The desire and determination displayed in Dunedin gave way to a form of resignation. The usual leaders, rarely present on the pitch or lacking influence, were unable to spark a revolt against a well-organized, fast, and disciplined New Zealand team.
For the French team, this defeat serves as a serious warning a year before the next major events. The third test, scheduled for next week, is already shaping up to be crucial, not to save the tour, but to restore a modicum of confidence and credibility.
At a time when New Zealand appears to be regaining all its brilliance under the leadership of Scott Robertson, France emerges from this confrontation stunned and weakened. Wellington's humiliation will leave its mark. It's up to Galthié and his men to prove they're capable of rising again.
