Throughout the annals of rugby history, there exists a clash so thrilling, so anticipated, that it transcends mere competition. It's a narrative woven with threads of triumph and heartbreak, a saga of titanic clashes and enduring rivalries. This tale takes us back to the year 2007 when France last played host to the rugby world cup. On that fateful opening day, their grand celebration was unceremoniously disrupted by a formidable Argentine side. Yet, as the tournament unfolded, France would then go on to orchestrate a daring heist against the favourites at rhe time, the New Zealand All Blacks, securing a 20-18 victory in the quarter-finals.
Fast forward to the present, where history threatens to repeat itself as New Zealand and France prepare to lock horns one more time. This time, the stakes might not be as high, considering the relatively less challenging teams in Pool A, which includes Italy, Namibia, and Uruguay. Regardless of the outcome, both New Zealand and France are favored to advance to the knockout stage from this group.
In typical fashiom, injuries have cast a shadow over this encounter, limiting our ability to make a fair comparison between the two squads. Notable players like Jordie Barrett, Shannon Frizzell, Brodie Retallick, and Tyrel Lomax are absent from the All Blacks lineup, while France has its own casualties in the form of Jonathan Danty and Cyril Baille.
In the grand scheme of things, this match might seem inconsequential, given the room for psychological recovery and the tournament's long road ahead. But beneath the surface, it carries a weight that only true rugby aficionados can fathom. It's a collision of rugby titans, a clash of styles—the invincible aura against the irresistible vibes—that consistently lives up to the hype.
Part of the intrigue lies in the past, where New Zealand and France have engaged in a storied rivalry within the Rugby World Cup. No two teams have met more frequently in the tournament's history, with seven face-offs to their name. Twice, in 1999 and 2007, France stunned the world with epic comebacks against the All Blacks, while New Zealand clinched glory in 1987 and 2011 with final victories over France.
Beyond the history and aesthetics, this match carries significance for the future. For France, it marks the culmination of a four-year campaign, meticulously orchestrated under the guidance of head coach Fabien Galthie. Their journey had humble beginnings, with a disappointing 2019 Six Nations performance. However, Galthie's mission was clear: nurture a new generation of exceptional young players and instill discipline and precision to aim for their first Rugby World Cup triumph in 2023.
The French squad, the best gheyve had in decades, stand on the cusp of a historic moment, brimming with confidence and buoyed by immense public support. Victory would not only amplify their belief but also raise the volume of their aspirations. The jury is still out as to who will come out on top here... Form.says the French have the edge, but never ever write of the All Blacks.
As we savor the anticipation of this epic showdown, the rugby world can do without unnecessary controversies. Both sides approach the game with respect, even in the face of a potential haka stand-off. Memories of legends past and present, acts of sportsmanship, and indelible moments from previous encounters enrich the tapestry of this rivalry.
While tradition once dictated hosts versus holders as the tournament opener, this fixture possesses a depth of history, quality, and anticipation that sets it apart. It's an opener without equal, a collision of rugby giants, and a spectacle that promises to etch another chapter in the storied history of New Zealand and France in the Rugby World Cup.
This one is a complete clique..... It could honestly go either way, in a 2 horse race thats pretty obvious.
PREDICTION - FRANCE 27 - 21 NEW ZEALAND