Clinical France Bounce Back with Record-Breaking Performance

France delivered a scintillating performance to hammer Italy 73-24 in the Six Nations, keeping their title hopes alive and setting up a potential decider against Ireland in Dublin. In a match that broke the championship record for most tries in a game (14), France showcased their attacking prowess with 11 tries, while Italy managed three.

A High-Scoring First Half

The contest exploded into life in the first half, with Italy striking first through Tommaso Menoncello. However, France quickly regained control with tries from Mickael Guillard, Peato Mauvaka, and captain Antoine Dupont. Ignacio Brex’s try gave Italy a glimmer of hope, but flanker Paul Boudehent and full-back Leo Barre ensured France held a commanding lead at halftime.

Second-Half Domination

France refused to ease up in the second half, with Gregory Alldritt, Louis Bielle-Biarrey, and Dupont adding to the scoreline. Paolo Garbisi’s try for Italy was a brief consolation, as Barre, Theo Attissogbe, and Pierre-Louis Barassi completed the rout. This victory marked France’s highest-ever score in the Six Nations.

Key Performances and Tactical Shifts

Fabien Galthie’s tactical changes after their loss to England paid dividends. Thomas Ramos’ move to fly-half allowed Barre to excel, while Dupont’s leadership and sharp skills were instrumental. Galthie’s decision to unload his bench early in the second half maintained the intensity, allowing France to finish strong.

Looking Ahead to Dublin

With this win, France now sit three points behind Ireland, whom they face on 8 March in a match that could decide the championship. Captain Antoine Dupont acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, “It will be a huge game in Dublin. We have two weeks to prepare, but it will be tough for sure.”

Match Line-Ups

Italy: Allan; Capuozzo, Brex, Menoncello, Gesi; Garbisi, Page-Relo; Fischetti, Lucchesi, Ferrari, N Cannone, Ruzza, Negri, Lamaro (capt), L Cannone.

France: Barre; Attissogbe, Barassi, Moefana, Bielle-Biarrey; Ramos, Dupont (capt); Gros, Mauvaka, Atonio, Flament, Guillard, Cros, Boudehent, Alldritt.

Referee: Karl Dickson (Eng)