All Blacks Secure Tense Victory Over France in Dunedin

Controversial calls and staunch French defense mark milestone win

Despite three disallowed tries and a resilient French squad, the All Blacks managed a narrow victory in Dunedin on Saturday, marking their 500th Test win. France’s tenacity tested the All Blacks, exposing areas for improvement early in the season.

Resolute French Challenge

France, despite facing controversy over team selection, displayed a determined defense, making 224 tackles compared to the All Blacks’ 121. Fullback Theo Attissogbe made crucial saves under pressure from All Blacks’ kicks, and captain Gael Fickou proved a constant threat in the backline.

Tries and Tribulations

An early try by Jordie Barrett was disallowed after a TMO review spotted a knock-on by Fraser Newell. France capitalized, with Mickael Guillard scoring in the 17th minute. The All Blacks responded swiftly when Scott Barrett charged down a kick, leading to a try by Will Jordan, who had shifted to the wing after Sevu Reece sustained a head injury.

All Blacks Surge Ahead

Replacement Damian McKenzie carved through the French defense, setting up Tupou Vaa’i for a try. A strong run by Ardie Savea then propelled the All Blacks forward, culminating in Jordie Barrett scoring in the corner, giving them a 21-13 lead at halftime.

Second-Half Exchanges

France narrowed the gap early in the second half with Gabin Villiere scoring a try. However, Will Jordan responded with his second try after a break by Cam Roigard. France again closed the gap when replacement Cameron Woki scored following a break by Jacobus van Tonder.

TMO Interventions and Final Result

After Gabin Villiere received a yellow card, a try by Billy Proctor was disallowed due to a knock-on. Further frustration mounted when a third try for Will Jordan was denied due to an obstruction. The All Blacks ultimately secured a 31-27 victory, breaking a three-game losing streak against France. According to recent data, the All Blacks maintain a winning percentage of over 76% in test matches, a testament to their consistent performance All Blacks Official Site.

New Zealand 31 (Will Jordan 2, Tupou Vaa’i, Jordie Barrett tries; Beauden Barrett 4 con, pen) France 27.

New Zealand: Will Jordan, Sevu Reece, Billy Proctor, Jordie Barrett, Rieko Ioane, Beauden Barrett, Cam Roigard, Christian Lio-Willie, Ardie Savea, Tupou Vaa’i, Fabian Holland, Scott Barrett (captain), Fletcher Newell, Codie Taylor, Ethan de Groot.
Replacements: Samisonson, Ollie Norris, Passilo Toss, Samipeni Finau, Du’Plesis Kirifi, Cortez Ratima, Quinn Tupaea, Damian McKenzie.

France: Theo Attissogbe, Tom Spring, Emilien Gailleton, Gael Fickou (Captain), Gabin Villière, Joris Segonds, Nolann Le Garc, Mickiel Guillard, Killian Tixeront, Alexandre Fischer, Tyler Duguid, Hugo Auradou, rabah Slimani, Gaetan Barlot, Giorgi Beria.
Replacements: Pierre Bourgarit, Paul Mallez, Mountain Registers, Romain Taofifenua, Cameron Woki, Jacobus Van Tonder, Baptiste Jauneau, Antoine Hastoy.

Referee: Nic Berry (Australia)
Assistant Referees: Christophe Ridley (England), Takehito Namekawa (Japan)
TMO: Damon Murphy (Australia)