The XV of France puts its title in play. Winner of the last Six Nations Tournament, with a Grand Slam as a bonus, the Blues play their first match of the 2023 edition against Italy, Sunday February 5 at 4 p.m., at the Olympic Stadium in Rome. Last year, already at the opening of the Tournament, France largely won against their transalpine neighbor (37-10). Follow our live.
The undefeated Blues since summer 2021. The XV of France approaches this 2023 Tournament with “a lot of excitement” And “a tenfold desire” to retain his title, assured Saturday the captain of the Blues, Antoine Dupont, on the eve of their entry. The XV of France is on a record series of 13 rank victories. The Blues have won their last 12 encounters against the Italians. Their last setback dates from February 2013, in Rome, as part of the Six Nations (23-18).
An Italian team less powerful but very mobile. “We are not the most physical or the biggest team, but we have a good defensive system and we will focus on our strengths”, warned the coach of the XV transalpine, Kieran Crowley. The Nazionale will try to “set a trap” to the Blues, warns the back Ange Capuozzo. The jewel of the Italian team will be particularly watched on Sunday afternoon.
Scotland achieved the feat by England. By flattening behind the line in the 75th minute, Scottish winger Duhan Van der Merwe, author of a remarkable performance, offered victory to the XV of Thistle on Saturday against England (29-23). The Scots have started their Six Nations Tournament perfectly, by winning, like last year, against their best enemies, which is more in their den of Twickenham.
