France triumphed over Scotland with a decisive 35-16 victory at Stade de France on March 15, 2025, clinching their first Six Nations title since 2022. Despite losing their captain Antoine Dupont to injury prior to the game, Les Bleus showcased their resilience, with notable performances from players like Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Yoram Moefana. This match marked the culmination of the Six Nations tournament, which saw France navigate through tough competition, including four previous victories against formidable rivals.
The significance of this match was palpable as France entered the venue with the prospect of championship glory hanging on the outcome. They held tight to their lead at half-time, just 16-13 ahead after Scotland pressed hard for control. Scotland's Darcy Graham managed to score, but it wasn't enough to halt France's momentum.
France's head coach Fabien Galthié had to rally his team without the significant skill of Dupont, who suffered a serious knee injury the previous week during their standout victory against Ireland, where he had been lauded as the backbone of their successful form. France would not allow these setbacks to dampen their spirits and took to the field with unmatched determination.
From the first whistle, France displayed their intent to dominate the match. Yoram Moefana scored the first try within fifteen minutes, initiating what would become a series of aggressive offensive plays. Thomas Ramos, who also had his moment shining as the all-time French points scorer during this match, added to the scoreboard, showcasing his kicking prowess throughout the match.
The match saw dramatic moments, including Peato Mauvaka avoiding ejection after clashing with Scotland's Ben White. While Scotland proved competitive, they were hindered by misfortune, with Tom Jordan’s apparent try being disallowed following video review, leaving Scotland simmering with frustration.
Louis Bielle-Biarrey scored the next try early in the second half, energizing the crowd and restoring France’s lead significantly. His impactful presence throughout the tournament was undeniable, having been instrumental to France’s attacking play previously, setting the record for the most tries scored across this year’s championship with eight.
Despite efforts from Scotland to make amends, including Finn Russell's determination to rally his teammates, they fell short against the increasingly formidable French defense. Each passing minute saw France apply relentless pressure, expertly breaking through Scotland’s plans as they frequently capitalized on opportunities.
At the end of the match, as the clock ticked down, Ramos added yet another try securing the bonus point for France and elevates their score past Scotland's efforts. Yoram Moefana then closed the match with another five-point attempt, decisively concluding the game at 35-16. The victory not only crowned France as champions of the Six Nations but also tied them with England’s historic record of seven championships.
The triumph was celebrated jubilantly at Stade de France, where Antoine Dupont, though sidelined, joined his teammates jubilantly as they lifted the prestigious trophy to the sound of cheering fans. Remarks from the coaching staff echoed sentiments of pride and resilience, especially from defense coach Shaun Edwards, who celebrated his 250th international match. “A very special night for myself. We were on it for the full 80 minutes,” he noted, reflecting on their performance.
French fans, ecstatic with the outcome, celebrated their team’s success, enriched by the memories of electrifying matches throughout the tournament. This year’s Six Nations was defined not only by the countries’ competition but also by resilience and the spirit of rugby, exemplified through the professional conduct displayed by all the teams.
Looking forward, the narrative for France is clear; they have laid down a marker for future tournaments with young talents coming through the ranks and showcasing the depth of skill within French rugby. The mix of youth and experience under the guidance of Galthié indicates promising prospects for the French Rugby Union on the world stage.
Scotland, on the other hand, whilst not securing the championship, displayed moments of brilliance and commitment, creating reason to remain optimistic about their future endeavors. Finishing the Six Nations with determination will serve them well heading forward as they seek to re-establish their footing among the elite teams of world rugby.
With the competition concluding, the rugby world turns its focus to the next endeavors, hopeful for more exciting developments as these teams group together again for upcoming international matches. Meanwhile, France enjoys their well-earned victory, savoring the delicious taste of triumph borne from perseverance and unity.