The anticipation is building as the France U20 rugby team prepares to face off against the England U20 team this Friday, February 7, at Recreation Park, Bath. The match promises to be pivotal for both teams as they vie for dominance early on in the Six Nations Tournament.
Fresh from their commanding performance against Wales, where they secured a resounding 63-19 victory, the Bleuets have their eyes set on continuing their momentum against the reigning champions. England, having beaten Ireland 3-19 previously, enters the match as the favorites.
For the French side, this encounter isn't just another game; it's about redemption and the quest for the Grand Slam. France's recent history against England has been tough, having lost their last two meetings, including the World Cup final last summer, and the last Six Nations clash. Center Fabien Brau-Boirie, who will start on Friday, expressed the team’s feelings, stating, "For some, it’s about revenge, but overall, it’s about delivering a strong performance to make our mark in the tournament."
To disturb England’s powerful pack, French coach Cédric Laborde has brought in several seasoned players with experience at the top level. Notably, prop Isaac Koffi Sedjoro and scrum-half Thibault Motassi, both from Stade Français, are expected to play key roles. Brau-Boirie highlighted their strategy against the formidable English forwards. "We know what to expect; they score most of their tries after mauls, and it will be hard-fought. We must be much more effective at the breakdowns to maintain ball possession and dictate the game’s tempo," he added.
England will be without their second-row Junior Kpoku due to his red card from the previous match, opening up opportunities for other young talents. Among these is promising third-rower Henry Pollock, who will take up the responsibility on the field.
The match, which kicks off at 21:00, will be covered live on the channel L'Équipe, with additional commentary available on the Ouest-France website. Rugby fans are eagerly awaiting the clash between two of the tournament's powerhouses, with France aiming to establish themselves early on.
With the promise of intensity, skill, and the potential for history to be made, all eyes will be on Bath this Friday night.