In a stunning display of power and precision, France demolished Wales 50-0 in their Six Nations opener at the Stade de France in Paris, handing the Welsh side their heaviest defeat in the competition’s history.
France’s captain, Antoine Dupont, made a scintillating return to Six Nations action, providing the driving force behind the home team’s seven-try triumph.
Dupont, who played a pivotal role in setting up three tries, was substituted after 49 minutes, but by then, his team had already established a commanding 28-0 lead at halftime.
His dazzling performance was a reminder of why he is regarded as one of the best scrum-halves in world rugby. Wales, on the other hand, were woeful throughout the match, struggling to keep up with France’s high-paced attack.
The Welsh defense was left exposed as Dupont orchestrated a clinical attacking game, with wings Theo Attissogbe and Louis Bielle-Biarrey each crossing for two tries. Despite the early promise of the visitors’ defense, it soon became evident that they were outclassed by their opponents.
While Dupont was the star of the first half, the second saw France extend their dominance with further tries from substitutes Julien Marchand and Emilien Gailleton, along with number eight Gregory Alldritt. Their swift, well-coordinated play left Wales no chance of mounting any significant challenge.
In a rare moment of frustration, Romain Ntamack, Dupont’s half-back partner, had a night to forget. After struggling to make an impact in the first half, Ntamack was sent off in the 71st minute for a dangerous tackle on Welsh center Ben Thomas.
His red card capped a dismal performance for the visiting team, who had no answers to France’s relentless attack. Wales’ woes were compounded by the loss of key players.
Owen Watkin was forced off in the first half with a serious knee injury, and number eight Aaron Wainwright followed him soon after with a facial injury, further decimating an already undermanned side.
The injuries, coupled with the mounting pressure from France, left Wales without hope as they endured their 13th consecutive loss in international rugby, a streak that dates back to October 2023.
The 50-0 defeat marked the first time Wales had failed to score a point in a Six Nations match, surpassing their previous record of 51-0 against France in 1998.
It was also their biggest loss to France in tournament history, surpassing the 36-3 hammering they received in Paris back in 1991.
Head coach Warren Gatland will be under intense scrutiny following the humiliating defeat, with the Welsh side struggling to find any rhythm or coherence. The loss leaves Wales with much to reflect on as they prepare for their upcoming matches in the competition.
For France, the victory is a statement of intent, with Dupont leading his side to a dominant performance that will leave other Six Nations teams on alert. With the tournament just beginning, France looks like a team on a mission, and Dupont remains their driving force.
