French Rugby Sevens Teams Shine Despite Final Defeats in Madrid
The French rugby sevens teams, both men’s and women’s, delivered remarkable performances at the Madrid tournament, the concluding stage of the World Sevens Series season. Despite not clinching the ultimate victory, their displays inspire confidence and promise for the future.
The French women's rugby sevens team fell short in the final against Australia, with a 26-7 loss. The Australians quickly capitalized on a French injury, and despite a strong start by the French, marked by a try from Yengo, the Australians dominated the second half. Lack of possession and crucial mistakes ultimately cost the French team the match. Coach David Courteix acknowledged the disappointment but highlighted the team's readiness for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Men’s Team Displays Grit and Determination
The men’s team, under the spotlight thanks to star player Antoine Dupont, also showcased resilience and skill. They managed a narrow 19-17 victory against Canada in their semi-final round. Dupont, instrumental in the defensive line, helped secure a try from Jefferson-Lee Joseph, which ensured the win. However, the team faced a formidable challenge in the final against Argentina, eventually succumbing 26-12. Argentina's cohesive gameplay and relentless pressure were decisive, although Dupont provided moments of brilliance.
Despite the losses, the performances in Madrid underscore the potential and competitive spirit of both French teams. The women’s team, particularly, aims to leverage these experiences as they prepare for the Paris 2024 Olympics. Both teams' journeys depict a narrative of growth, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence on the international stage.
- The French teams’ path to the finals was marked by significant victories and intense matches. The women's team emerged second in their group after an unexpected win by Canada over New Zealand, a team that had previously defeated them in Tokyo. Their semi-final victory over Canada was hard-fought, with a yellow card almost jeopardizing their lead.
- The men’s team, after a training stint in the Pacific, faced Fiji in a nail-biting semi-final. The involvement of Antoine Dupont, both defensively and offensively, proved crucial. Despite the eventual defeat in the final, the men’s journey through the tournament reflected strategic growth and commendable effort.
- Both teams showcased extraordinary performances despite the challenges, positioning themselves as strong contenders in future tournaments. The experiences in Madrid will likely contribute to their strategic planning and development as they aim for success in upcoming competitions, particularly the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
