France gave Argentina a 37-23 defeat at Stade de France delivering them their third successive win of the Autumn Nations Series. The French team led in the first half, capitalizing on Argentina’s shortcomings. Thibaud Flament scored the first try after 10 minutes, taking advantage of Julian Montoya’s yellow card, which had temporarily reduced the Pumas to 14 players.
Thomas Ramos contributed with key penalties, increasing France’s advantage. Gabin Villiere touched down in the 34th minute before a similarly ruthless penalty try left well enough alone. France led, 30-9, at halftime.
Argentina’s Second-Half Comeback
Argentina showed some guts in the second half. Thomas Gallo scored in the 57th minute, reducing France’s lead. But the home side were quick to respond. Louis Bielle-Biarrey’s smart chip-and-chase score made it 21 points again. Ignacio Ruiz netted a late goal for Argentina, but the deficit proved too large to overcome.
What the match has lacked, though, are standout performances.
Thomas Ramos was key for France, scoring 17 points and climbing in his country’s all-time scoring standings. Captain Antoine Dupont dictated the tempo, and forwards Charles Ollivon and François Cros supplied stability. Even with Matteo Carreras and Marcos Kremer both having a solid game for Argentina, the latter could not match the cohesive style of their opponent on the pitch.
The Fall Tour of France Paves the Way
This victory caps France’s highly successful Autumn Nations Series with a narrow 30-29 victory over New Zealand. Overall, these are among the performances that cemented France’s status as one of the leading sides in world rugby and gave it a firm base to build off for future challenges.
