Two absences that could weigh heavily on the French XV. Winger Damian Penaud and third row François Cros will not be available to face the All Blacks on Saturday evening (9.10pm) at the Stade de France, according to information from The team that we can confirm. The two, managers of Fabien Galthié’s group, will miss the most anticipated match of the Blues’ autumn tour against the vice-world champions. The French Rugby Federation must make the news official today.
The former, announced as the starter against Japan on Saturday evening, had already had to withdraw from the match against the Japanese due to illness. The Bordeaux-Bègles player is still not well and has even returned to rest in Gironde, according to the sports newspaper. The second kicked off the great victory (52-12) of the French before leaving at halftime. If the day after the match he was confident about his participation in the clash against New Zealand, medical tests revealed a concussion for the Stade Toulouse player. Which forces him to remain in the stands.
At the same time, uncertainty still reigns over the case of second row Thibaud Flament. After coming out in the first half on Saturday evening, the player was hit in the iliac crest. If the first echoes are reassuring, caution remains regarding his presence on the pitch on Saturday evening. In terms of good news, the French XV should find their usual right-side mainstay Uini Atonio, who suffered a calf injury and was absent against the Japanese.
Owners Boudehent and Villière?
Fabien Galthié’s men will train this Tuesday afternoon in Marcoussis. A session that will allow us to see the probable starting line-up against New Zealand. The favorite to replace François Cros in the third row is Paul Boudehent, who scored a double on Saturday evening. On the wing, the French staff also have to deal with the loss of Théo Attissogbe, who replaced Damian Penaud at the last minute on Saturday evening. Gabin Villière, a starter in the 2022 Grand Slam, could take the opportunity to celebrate his first selection since a World Cup match against Uruguay (27-12) in September 2023.
New Zealanders also have notable absences to regret. Hit on the head during the win in Ireland on Friday night, third-rower Sam Cane (103 caps) will not be able to play at the Stade de France. Also on the wing is winger Mark Tele’a, scorer of the brace against the Blues during the last World Cup and the winning try in England ten days ago.
Interview: The Impact of Key Absences on the French XV
Editor (Time.news): Welcome to our special segment! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with rugby expert Dr. Marie Lefebvre, who has extensively analyzed the dynamics of international rugby teams. Marie, thank you for joining us!
Dr. Lefebvre: Thank you for having me! It’s always a pleasure to discuss the intricacies of rugby.
Editor: Let’s dive right into it. The French Rugby Federation has confirmed the absences of Damian Penaud and François Cros for the upcoming match against the All Blacks. How significant are these absences for the French XV?
Dr. Lefebvre: Those are considerable losses for France, especially with Penaud being one of the key wingers. He was initially slated to start against Japan but had to withdraw due to illness, showing how delicate player health can be leading up to crucial matches. Cros, on the other hand, was integral in their previous match against Japan and his concussion means they’ll miss his defensive skills and game-reading ability.
Editor: Speaking of game strategy, how do you think Fabien Galthié will adjust the lineup with these absences?
Dr. Lefebvre: Galthié has some depth in his squad, so it’s likely he’ll shuffle some positions to maintain balance. For Penaud, we might see Gabin Villière stepping up on the wing, as he has proven to be a reliable replacement. As for the forward pack, they’ll need to find a way to compensate for Cros’s physicality, perhaps by bringing in a player like Charles Ollivon to add experience and leadership.
Editor: What does this mean for the team morale, particularly when facing a strong opponent like the All Blacks?
Dr. Lefebvre: Team morale can be tricky. On one hand, there may be some anxiety about stepping up without these key players; on the other, it can also serve as a rallying point. The remaining players will likely feel a heightened sense of responsibility and, ironically, it might galvanize the team to perform better. They are aware of the challenge ahead and could use this as an opportunity to prove their depth and resilience.
Editor: It was mentioned that there is still uncertainty regarding Thibaud Flament’s status following his exit during the last match. How critical is it to have clarity on his condition?
Dr. Lefebvre: Clarity on Flament’s condition is vital. If he is unavailable, it further diminishes the team’s options, especially in the second row where depth can be a challenge. Furthermore, the All Blacks are notorious for exploiting weaknesses, so how the French adapt their game plan in light of these injuries will be crucial for their performance.
Editor: In your opinion, what are the key factors for the French XV to consider in this high-stakes match against New Zealand?
Dr. Lefebvre: France must focus on maintaining composure and discipline, particularly in set pieces and defensive organization. Minimizing mistakes and capitalizing on any opportunities that arise will also be essential. Given the sheer talent and experience of the All Blacks, every point and every possession counts.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Lefebvre. Your insights certainly shed light on the challenges that lie ahead for the French XV. We appreciate your expertise as we anticipate what promises to be an electrifying match!
Dr. Lefebvre: Thank you! I’m looking forward to the game and seeing how the French team rises to the occasion.
