France stuns world champion Springboks 21-19 in a Nations Championship thriller
PARIS (AP) — France upset world champion South Africa 21-19 in a thriller between the Nations Championship rugby leaders that exceeded the hype on Friday night.The Springboks started the match as the overwhelming favorite — unbeaten in the new competition, unbeaten against France at its national stadium for 21 years — but never led an epic heavyweight showdown.
Paris (AP) — France achieved an upset victory over world champion South Africa, securing a 21-19 win in the Nations Championship rugby match on Friday night. Initially favored, South Africa, who had been unbeaten in the new competition and against France at their home stadium for 21 years, never led during the intense encounter.
Skillful performances in the first and second halves by Antoine Dupont and Maxime Lucu, dubbed "icons" by coach Fabien Galthié, propelled France to leads of 14-0 and 21-7 respectively by halftime. Despite facing multiple setbacks including three yellow cards and a struggling scrum, France maintained their lead in a tense second half.
The match served as a potential preview for the upcoming final at Twickenham in two weeks, with France set to represent the northern hemisphere. However, South Africa's chances of making it to the final may be diminished if New Zealand, currently undefeated, defeats Wales on Saturday. If this occurs, South Africa would drop to the second position in the southern hemisphere standings and forfeit its No. 1 world ranking, which is currently held by France.
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