French Rugby Sevens Face Historic Challenge in Madrid
Both the French men's and women's rugby sevens teams have made it to the semi-finals of the world circuit in Madrid, a historic achievement for French rugby. This prestigious event gathers the top eight teams from around the globe, and it's the first time the French teams could potentially win the global season. The men's team, bolstered by the star player Antoine Dupont from Stade Toulouse, and the women's team have both secured their spots in the final four, setting the stage for an intense Sunday.
Road to the Semi-Finals
The men's team, led by Jérôme Daret, had a strong start in the tournament by defeating Australia 38-5. However, they faced a setback against Argentina, losing 26-12. They bounced back with a crucial win against Great Britain (17-12) in a match where Dupont scored a decisive try and delivered a game-winning pass in overtime. They are now set to face the double reigning Olympic champions, Fiji, for a place in the final.
The women's team, guided by David Courteix, had an impressive performance as well. They won against Fiji (36-7) and Ireland (31-5) but lost to Australia (28-14) in the group stage. Despite the loss, favorable results from other group matches allowed them to face Canada in the semi-finals. Canada surprised everyone by finishing ahead of the favorite New Zealand team.
Key Moments and Performances
Antoine Dupont has been a game-changer for the men's team. His entry into the game against Great Britain revived the team's fortunes, showcasing his skills with a powerful try and a critical pass to his club teammate Nelson Epée, securing their victory. Similarly, the women's team has shown remarkable teamwork and strategy, with standout performances that have fueled their journey to the semi-finals.
Both semi-finals are scheduled for Sunday: France-Canada (women) begins at 11:57 a.m., and France-Fiji (men) starts at 12:21 p.m. Fans can watch the matches for free on Rugbypass TV and France.tv. The French teams' determination and skill have set the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.
- The atmosphere in Madrid has been electric, with fans eagerly following the progress of both French teams. The inclusion of Antoine Dupont, considered one of the best players in the world, has added an extra layer of excitement and expectation.
- Argentina, another strong contender in the tournament, awaits their match against Australia, which will determine the final order of the semi-finalists. Having already defeated France, they are keen to maintain their lead and face New Zealand or Fiji in the next round.
- Both French teams have shown resilience and strategic prowess, attributes that have been key to their success so far. As they prepare for their critical semi-final matches, the support and anticipation from fans continue to build.
