France Rugby Sevens Team Aims for Gold in Paris Olympics
The French rugby sevens team is set to compete in the Olympic final against Fiji on Saturday evening at the Stade de France. After a hard-fought victory over South Africa in the semi-finals, the Blues are determined to clinch the gold medal on home soil. Coach Jérôme Daret expressed confidence in his team's preparation, stating, "We are just one step away from the Olympic title."
Fiji: The Unbeatable Opponent
Fiji, the reigning champions, pose a significant challenge for the French team. Known for their speed, explosiveness, and skill, the Fijians have never lost an Olympic match since rugby sevens was introduced in 2016. Despite finishing 6th in the world rugby sevens circuit this season, their Olympic track record makes them formidable opponents. Daret highlighted the importance of understanding Fijian play, remarking, "The most important word is to have fun, to be joyful all the time."
Anticipation Builds for the Final
With a packed crowd expected at the Stade de France, the atmosphere is sure to be electric. Players like Antoine Dupont and Jordan Sepho are ready to deliver their best performance. The team is focused on capitalizing on their recent momentum, having avenged their earlier loss to Fiji in the group stage. Dupont emphasized the need for a strong start, stating, "We must remain vigilant and focused."
- The journey to the final has been remarkable for the French team, which has shown resilience and determination throughout the tournament. The semi-final victory against South Africa was particularly significant, marking the first Olympic final in the history of the French men's rugby sevens team. The players have expressed gratitude towards the supporters, with Aaron Grandidier noting the emotional impact of playing in front of a home crowd of nearly 70,000. In preparation for the final, the team has focused on refining their strategies and maintaining a positive mindset. Captain Paulin Riva stated, "We’re really going to recharge the batteries and fire up for Saturday!" This reflects the team's collective ambition to secure their first Olympic title and make history in the process.
