France predict fierce battle
Preview
Today. 12.30pm
LES Bleues have recorded wins over Ireland and Scotland to leave them second behind England in the table as they prepare for a huge battle against Italy.
Italy lost to England in round one but bounced back to defeat Ireland and while they have not beaten France since 2019 – and are still awaiting their first victory on French soil – les Bleues flanker Gaelle Hermet is not taking them lightly.
“It is going to be a fierce match with lots of contact and will be very physical,” Hermet said. “We'll have to be very effective with our attack, especially close to their line.
“Italy versus France is always a special match as there are lots of Italians who play in France. I think they will bring a lot of pressure and be very motivated for the match.
“Italy have a good mix with their forward pack and backline. They will want to move the ball when they have the chance or put pressure on us with their kicks.”
With matches on three consecutive weekends to come, France know that they will need to stay focused if they want to go into the final match of the championship against England with a chance of toppling the champions.
Centre Emeline Gros said: “We know how to slow the ball down, we're defending better than we used to and we're making progress. When we're up front, we like to get our heads in the game and when we're playing mauls, we like to have that confrontation with the girls in front of us. We all want to challenge each other.”
