France host the might of the All Blacks in Paris next weekend, with the tourists hoping to show once more why they are the most feared rugby team in the world at present. With the home side having been out of sorts over recent matches themselves, it could well be along night’s work at the Stade de France, with New Zealand being the firm favourites for victory.
Autumn Internationals – Stade de France, Paris – Saturday 11th November – 19:45 UK Time
Match Preview
Having followed up a largely disappointing Six Nations campaign with three consecutive defeats to South Africa throughout June, the pressure is on France to rediscover their form, starting with their clash against New Zealand next Saturday. Guy Noves has a playing squad packed full of experience, however it remains to be seen as to whether they can cope with the power and skill of an in-form All Black side. With a large amount of interest expected on this match, particularly from betting customers, be sure to check out our top tip surrounding the clash. However, let’s first take a closer look at the two teams, starting with Les Bleus.
France Team News & Form
Despite recording wins over Scotland, Italy and Wales during the Six Nations earlier this year, France still ended in a disappointing third position in the standings. Guy Noves’ team then lost the three-match series 3-0 in South Africa, meaning that they head into the Autumn Internationals in dire need of some positive results. Hooker Guilhem Guirado will lead the team against the All Blacks, while the likes of François Trinh-Duc and Mathieu Bastareaud are familiar names in the back-line for the French. A total of ten players could make their debuts against the All Blacks, with Novet having selected a mix of youth and experience in his latest squad.
New Zealand Team News & Form
Having won their sixth Rugby Championship in just seven years just a matter of weeks ago, New Zealand ended a run of wins over Australia with a 23-18 defeat against the Wallabies. Steve Hansen and his men will be out to return to winning ways in Paris as a result, which could be ominous news for France. The All Blacks take on the Barbarians this weekend, before heading to France, with the likes of Kieran Read, Sam Whitelock and Dane Coles forming a powerful front row for the visitors. Meanwhile, their back line is just as frightening, with players including Damian McKenzie, Rieko Ioane and Sonny Bill Williams having the pace and skill to unlock any defence.
Head to Head
The two teams have 57 times over the years, with New Zealand having generally had the upper hand over Ireland, with 44 victories to their name. France have won on 12 occasions, with one draw between the two international sides.
Betting Odds and Predictions
Despite their home advantage, their form and the quality of the opponent means that France head into the game as underdogs for victory with the bookmakers. Those looking to back the home side can get best odds of 9/2 at Ladbrokes, while an unlikely draw is at 25/1.
Top Betting Tip
However, our top betting tip for the match is to bet on New Zealand winning at the Stade de France next weekend, with odds of 1/7 available at William Hill.