In a thrilling and contentious match at Twickenham's Allianz Stadium, England XV suffered a narrow 26-24 defeat to France XV. The game was marked by a pivotal moment in the 34th minute when England's Immanuel Feyi-Waboso was shown a red card for a dangerous high tackle on Antoine Hastoy.

Key Moments

• Feyi-Waboso's Red Card: The 22-year-old Exeter Chief was initially given a yellow card, but after a review by the television match official, it was upgraded to a red. This decision left England with 14 men and Feyi-Waboso facing a potential ban.
• England's Lead: Despite the setback, England managed to take a 24-12 lead in the final 10 minutes, thanks to a try from Harlequins captain Alex Dombrandt.
• France's Comeback: France XV rallied in the dying moments, with tries from Paul Mallez and Romain Taofifenua, followed by a crucial conversion from Hastoy to snatch victory.

Post-Match Reactions

England head coach Steve Borthwick expressed his disappointment, stating, "We want to win, our supporters want us to win, and it is frustrating not to have got that win having been in such a good position." He also emphasized the need to focus on upcoming challenges, particularly the tour against Argentina.

Player Performances

• Joe Carpenter: The Sale full-back scored a try and was a standout performer for England.
• George Ford: Co-captain Ford missed two crucial conversions, which proved costly in the end.

Looking Ahead

England will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their tour of Argentina and the United States. France, on the other hand, will continue their preparations for a three-Test home series against New Zealand.

Line-ups

England XV: Carpenter; Roebuck, Slade, Atkinson, Feyi-Waboso; Ford (co-capt), Spencer; Baxter, George (co-capt), Heyes, Coles, Isiekwe, Hill, Pepper, Willis Replacements: Dan, Rodd, Davison, Cunningham-South, Kenningham, Dombrandt, Quirke, Beard Red card: Feyi-Waboso (34)

France XV: Attissogbe; Moustin, Gailleton, Fickou, Duguivalu; Hastoy, Le Garrec; Erdocio, Barlot, Slimani, Auradou, Duguid, Fishcher, Tixeront, Guillard. Replacements: G Marchand, Mallez, Bamba, Taofifenua, Van Tonder, Woki, Jauneau, Berdeu Red card: Cameron Woki (54)

Officials

Referee: Hollie Davidson (Sco) Assistant referees: Eoghan Cross (Ire) and Sam Grove White (Sco) TMO: Mike Adamson (Sco)