Pool A: The Blues win against Uruguay in a difficult match
In a match where they were heavily favored, the French rugby team struggled to find their rhythm but ultimately won with a score of 27-12 against a combative Uruguayan team.
The teammates of Fabien Galthié, who had made many changes compared to the victory against the All Blacks, struggled to find their cohesion and inspiration on the field. Despite an early first try scored by Antoine Hastoy, the French finishers were little in sight and lacked effectiveness against the solid Uruguayan defensive block.
It was only in the second half, thanks to an error from their opponents, that the Blues managed to widen the gap with a try from Peato Mauvaka. Young Louis Bielle-Biarrey, who became the youngest French player to play in a World Cup, then scored a late try that sealed victory for the French.
However, this match was not convincing for the French team. The players made numerous approximations and were penalized several times. The replacements, who had the opportunity to shine, were not able to provide what was expected and were not entirely satisfactory.
This victory without an offensive bonus underlines the difficulties encountered by the French in this competition. Despite the absence of certain senior players, the Blues must show more depth and efficiency to hope to face the next challenges.
The path to the quarter-finals of the World Cup therefore still promises to be strewn with pitfalls for the French team. The next matches against Namibia and Italy will be opportunities to rectify the situation and show a better level of play.
In conclusion, this laborious victory for the Blues against Uruguay highlights the shortcomings of the French team. Despite the numerous changes made by Fabien Galthié, the team failed to find its rhythm and lacked efficiency in the last move. Progress will have to be made if the French want to hope to shine in this World Cup.