Considering the recent performances of both teams, one might think that the French team will make quick work of the English team, but that would be to ignore the special context of the encounters between these two nations.
We should therefore expect a real battle, fierce, tough, uncompromising in a physical-to-physical match, a constant struggle in the contest, on the ground balls, a permanent challenge in the duels. The French must be present in all these areas of the game by staying focused and disciplined, but also being mentally strong to not be inhibited by the stakes.
The first minutes of this match will be very important; the Blues must launch themselves without any second thoughts, with desire and determination into the battle to maintain the confidence gathered since the beginning of this tournament and leave the English with their doubts.
Despite all the respect owed to this English team, it is hard to imagine France depriving itself of its ninth grand slam after having deprived itself of a place in the final during the 2007 World Cup against this same opponent.
Eric Buchet
