2024-11-10 01:03:00
Saturday 9 November was a reunion evening in Saint-Denis (Seine-Saint-Denis). A year after their cruel elimination in the quarter-finals of the World Cup, the Blues returned to the Stade de France for their first match of the autumn, against Japan. A meeting with the Ile-de-France public which soon took on the appearance of a gigantic banquet. Several shades above the Brave Blossoms, Fabien Galthié’s men quickly eliminated their opponents, eliminating them 52 to 12.
If the French did not shy away from the pleasure of returning to the pitch in the Dionysian enclosure, they were particularly happy to reunite, a year later, with Antoine Dupont, their scrum half, star and captain. They Private partner moreover, as one of the brass bands present in the stands during the match casually pointed out. Above all, the one that was terribly missed during a mixed Six Nations Tournament, whose home matches were played in Marseille, Lille and Lyon, while the Blues’ usual den was dressing in Olympic beauty.
The Ile-de-France stadium has not forgotten Antoine Dupont and made it clear, acting as a lone man, when the Toulouse number 9 went to score a try in the second half, he eventually rejected an attacker. The best player in the world 2021 did not miss out on a place in Saint-Denis, he who had warmed up the place for his friends from the XV by going on to collect gold with the French rugby sevens team.
“I wasn’t lost, I immediately found myself here” the Blues leader had laughed the day before, during the traditional pre-match press conference. The guy is the type to keep his promises and announced that his troops wanted him “have fun on a rugby pitch”. Thanks, therefore, to the Tricolore who accumulated goals throughout the evening, following the rhythm of their fans.
The Blues looking for redemption
In the stands, Emilia’s eyes, a song which during the Olympic Games became a sort of hymn to the glory of the French athletes, had just finished when the winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey (4th minute) and the center Emilien Gailleton (10th) were already about to make a leap into the opponent’s goal. As for the third row, Alexandre Roumat (19th), waited for the end of the first “wave” to try again, just like Bielle-Biarrey (28th), just before a Marseillaise it doesn’t resonate in the bays. The issue was resolved and the French fans were also able to politely applaud the first Japanese try, which was rejected after the video refereeing (38th).
Interview between Time.news Editor and Rugby Expert on Antoine Dupont’s Return to the French XV
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to our readers! Today, we have the pleasure of interviewing Rugby Expert, Jean Moreau, to discuss the highly anticipated return of Antoine Dupont to the French national team. Thanks for joining us, Jean!
Jean Moreau (JM): Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such an exciting event in the rugby world.
TNE: Antoine Dupont’s return to the French XV after a year-long absence was undoubtedly a significant moment for both him and the team. What did his presence mean for the squad in the match against Japan?
JM: Dupont’s return is monumental—not only because he is the captain, but he’s also recognized as one of the best players in the world. His ability to lead by example, manage the game, and inspire those around him is irreplaceable. During the match against Japan, you could feel the energy shift when he stepped onto the field. It’s as if the whole team collectively rose to another level.
TNE: The 52-12 victory against Japan was quite a statement. How did Dupont contribute to this dominant performance?
JM: Dupont embodies agility and tactical brilliance. His return coincided with an energetic and liberated performance from the whole team. He scored a try in the second half, and even though he faced some tough defenders, he showed why he’s trusted as a game-changer. Beyond his tries, it’s his decision-making under pressure that really helps in these high-stakes games.
TNE: There was quite the celebration at the Stade de France—how important is the home crowd in such matches?
JM: The support from the home crowd can lift a team’s spirits. The Stade de France is not just a stadium; it’s a fortress for the French team. Dupont’s presence, coupled with the electric atmosphere from the stands, transformed it into a giant celebration. This reunion was not just about the match; it was about reclaiming lost pride after their World Cup exit.
TNE: Speaking of the World Cup, how do you think this match plays into France’s ambitions leading up to the next tournament?
JM: This victory is pivotal in rebuilding confidence. After the disappointment of their World Cup quarter-finals, this match was like a fresh start. They needed this performance to remind everyone, including themselves, of their potential. With players like Dupont returning to form, France has a solid foundation to build on as they prepare for future competitions.
TNE: You mentioned the Six Nations tournament where France lacked home games. How did this impact team morale and their performance?
JM: Playing at neutral venues can be challenging. It limits the electrifying home support and familiarity which often boosts a team’s confidence. France’s matches in Marseille, Lille, and Lyon lacked that home ground advantage that they are so used to in the Stade de France. Dupont’s absence was felt, and the team sometimes seemed to lack direction. His reintroduction was essential not just for tactical reasons but also for revitalizing the group’s camaraderie.
TNE: As an expert, what do you foresee for Dupont and the team moving forward?
JM: If he continues to stay fit and maintain his form, I expect him to play a crucial role in upcoming tournaments. His leadership will be instrumental in molding the younger players and establishing a winning culture. France is gearing up to be a formidable force, and Dupont will be at the forefront of that transformation.
TNE: Thank you, Jean, for sharing your insights on Antoine Dupont’s return and its implications for French rugby. It’s an exciting time for fans and players alike!
JM: My pleasure! It’s indeed a thrilling time for rugby, and I can’t wait to see how things unfold.
TNE: And to our readers, stay tuned for more updates on the evolving story of French rugby and Antoine Dupont’s journey!