Rugby World Cup 2023 | Match Centre | France 96:0 Namibia

In a stunning display of dominance, France annihilated Namibia with a resounding 96-0 victory in a Rugby World Cup clash that left fans in awe at the Stade Vélodrome in Marseille on Thursday evening. This one-sided encounter saw the French team run up a massive score, coming perilously close to breaking the three-figure barrier. However, amidst the jubilation, a dark cloud hung over the French camp as their skipper, Antoine Dupont, was forced off the field due to a head injury, casting a shadow over an otherwise flawless performance.

France, the host nation, showcased their supremacy by making 12 changes from their previous somewhat unconvincing 27-12 triumph against Uruguay. With their star players back in action, they wasted no time in asserting their dominance from the very first whistle.

Damian Pernaud emerged as a standout performer, securing a remarkable hat-trick, while Jonathan Danty, Louis Bielle-Biarrey, and Charles Ollivon all contributed with braces of their own. Thibaud Flament, Antoine Dupont, and substitutes Baptiste Couillard and Melvyn Jaminet added their names to the scoresheet as well, with Thomas Ramos expertly converting 12 times.

However, the victory was not without its challenges and setbacks. The most concerning moment came when skipper Antoine Dupont suffered a head injury early in the second half. Namibia’s captain, Johan Deysel, delivered a heavy blow to Dupont’s head, forcing him to leave the field. This unexpected turn of events left fans, as well as the French team, anxious about Dupont’s potential absence in the crucial knockout stages.

As France basks in the glory of their record-breaking World Cup victory, the nation remains on edge, awaiting updates on Dupont’s condition. His leadership and exceptional skills have been instrumental in France’s impressive campaign thus far, and any extended absence could significantly impact their performance in the knockout stages.

With a fortnight of rest before their next match, France finds themselves at the pinnacle of Pool A, boasting a perfect record of three wins from three matches. Their final pool game against Italy looms on the horizon, and it will serve as a critical test for the French team, especially if they must face it without their influential skipper.

In conclusion, France’s ruthless 96-0 demolition of Namibia showcased their dominance in the Rugby World Cup. The impressive performances of several players, including Damian Pernaud’s hat-trick, highlighted their potential as tournament contenders. However, the uncertainty surrounding Antoine Dupont’s injury adds an element of suspense to their campaign. As they prepare for their final pool match against Italy, the French team and their fans hope for good news regarding Dupont’s fitness, as his presence could prove crucial in their pursuit of World Cup glory.

Match Summary

Pool A | France 96:0 Namibia

France Scores:

TRIES Damian Penaud (6′, 21′, 55′), Jonathan Danty (9′, 26′), Charles Ollivon (18′, 68′), Thibaud Flament (33′), Antoine Dupont (38′), Louis Bielle-Biarrey (41′, 64′), Baptiste Couilloud (47′), Melvyn Jaminet (76′)
PEN TRIES (80′)
CONV Thomas Ramos (10′, 15′, 22′, 27′, 34′, 39′, 42′, 48′, 56′, 65′, 70′, 77′)

Namibia Scores:

Referee:

Matthew Carley

Man of the match:

Antoine Dupont (France)

Highlights

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