France narrowly escaped a shocking defeat against a resurgent Fiji, proving that even the most dominant teams can be pushed to the brink. Sounds dramatic, right? It was! Despite a commanding early lead, France found themselves locked in a fierce battle, ultimately relying on a Louis Depoortere double to secure a hard-fought victory. But here's where it gets controversial... did France really earn that win, or did Fiji hand it to them with late-game errors?
The match began with what seemed like a French procession. Within the first 20 minutes, France surged to a 21-0 lead, thanks to tries from the young star Depoortere, hooker Julien Marchand, and Charles Ollivon. Thomas Ramos was perfect with the boot, converting all three tries. It looked like a comfortable afternoon for 'Les Bleus'.
Then came the Fijian storm. Showing incredible resilience and attacking flair, Fiji launched a stunning comeback. Tries from Kalaveti Ravouvou, Selestino Ravutaumada, and Jiuta Wainiqolo, all converted by Simione Kuruvoli, remarkably leveled the score shortly after halftime. The momentum had completely shifted. An upset was definitely on the cards!
But France, spurred on by the home crowd, managed to regain their composure. Two penalties from Ramos edged them back in front, before Depoortere crashed over for his second try, sealing a nervy victory. This win came just a week after a heavy defeat to South Africa, the reigning Rugby World Cup champions, a loss that had heaped pressure on head coach Fabien Galthie.
"What's important was to win," Galthie told French television channel TF1, highlighting the relief within the French camp. "When you start the season at home with a loss, it's difficult. It was a victory against an opponent we feared. We will be better next week," he confidently added. Galthie had recalled experienced No.8 Gregory Alldritt as captain and Ollivon at lock, hoping to avoid a fifth consecutive Test loss, following the Springboks defeat and three losses to New Zealand earlier in the year.
Fiji's coach, Mick Byrne, showed faith in his squad, retaining the same starting lineup from their previous defeat to England. The team featured seven France-based players, including Racing 92's Ravumautada and Lyon's Wainiqolo, demonstrating the growing influence of Fijian talent in French rugby.
France's dominant start saw 22-year-old Depoortere (who hails from the Bordeaux suburb of Pessac), Marchand, and Ollivon all crossing the try line. However, by halftime, Fiji had clawed their way back into contention, trailing by just seven points thanks to tries from Bristol centre Ravouvou and Ravumautada. And this is the part most people miss... France's midfield was in disarray at the end of the first half, with flanker Oscar Jegou filling in at centre due to head injuries to both Pierre-Louis Barassi and his replacement, Emilien Gailleton. This disruption clearly impacted their defensive solidity.
Fiji continued their resurgence after the break. Wainiqolo powered his way over the line after 43 minutes, battling through two French defenders, and Kuruvoli's successful conversion brought the scores level. With a quarter of the game remaining, Ramos's two penalties, awarded due to Fijian indiscipline, put France back in the lead at 27-21. Depoortere then secured the victory with a powerful run, giving the home side some much-needed breathing room with just nine minutes left on the clock.
France now look ahead to hosting Australia in Paris next Saturday, while Fiji travel to Spain. The French will be hoping for a more convincing performance, while Fiji will take heart from their impressive fightback.
So, the burning question remains: Was this a sign of French vulnerability, or a testament to Fiji's growing strength? Did France secure a well-deserved victory, or did Fiji's ill-discipline and late-game errors cost them a historic upset? What did you think of Galthie's tactics and team selection? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
© 2025 AFP
