FRANCE HAMMER IRELAND IN PARIS TO KICK OFF SIX NATIONS DEFENCE
France made a thumping statement in the 2026 Six Nations, dismantling Ireland 36-14 in the opening round at a packed Stade de France, signalling their intent to defend the title they won last year.
It wasn’t just a win, it was dominance from the first whistle, with Les Bleus controlling possession, territory and tempo for much of the night to leave the Irish reeling.
From the outset, France showed they meant business. Led by the mercurial Antoine Dupont, back after a long injury layoff, and the inventive Matthieu Jalibert, the hosts carved open Ireland’s defence again and again.
With slick ball movement and punishing territory, France hit their stride early and raced into a 29-0 lead before Ireland even got on the board.
Wing Louis Bielle-Biarrey was a constant threat, crossing for two tries, while Jalibert and Charles Ollivon also touched down in a blistering first half. Full-back Thomas Ramos kicked smartly, adding a penalty and several conversions to keep the scoreboard ticking.
France secured the crucial four-try bonus point before Ireland even found a foothold.
Ireland’s response came only after the game was effectively out of reach. Replacements Nick Timoney and Michael Milne crossed within minutes of each other midway through the second half, giving the visitors something to cheer.
But the fightback was too little, too late, and France wrapped things up when Théo Attissogbe finished in the corner to restore a comfortable margin.
Image credit: Sky Sports