The anticipation is palpable as the 2025 Six Nations Championship kicks off tonight, with France set to host Wales at the iconic Stade de France. Kicking off at 8:15 PM GMT on January 31, this match not only marks the beginning of the tournament but also poses significant challenges for Wales, who are viewed as considerable underdogs.
Warren Gatland’s team enters this opening clash burdened by the weight of history—specifically, their current 12-match losing streak extending back to the 2023 Rugby World Cup. This lack of success has left Wales yearning for hope, with their last victory coming against Georgia as they scraped through the pool stages of the World Cup. Now, the challenge is steep: can they turn their fortunes around against Les Bleus, who are eyeing the title and boast several of Europe’s finest players?
France, captained by the highly regarded Antoine Dupont, is considered one of the tournament’s frontrunners. They enjoyed remarkable success during the recent Autumn Nations Series, securing victories against formidable opponents, including New Zealand. With Dupont and fly-half Romain Ntamack reunited, the French side looks to make a powerful statement as they aim for their sixth consecutive win against Wales.
Yet, the Welsh side isn’t devoid of experienced players. With key figures such as Liam Williams and Josh Adams returning, the team hopes to channel resilience and fight against the odds. Gatland's history with the Six Nations is rich—celebrated for leading Wales through Grand Slams—yet the current situation marks a stark contrasts, as the side grapples with identity and performance issues.
Bookmakers show little faith, placing odds at 25-1 for Wales to win tonight’s match, reflecting the prevailing skepticism from fans and pundits alike. Even the players acknowledge the challenge at hand. New scrum consultant Adam Jones summarized the sentiment best when he stated, “The whole country and rugby world thinks we are going to go there and get pumped.”
Welsh captain Jac Morgan, stepping up as the leader amid team shortages, urges his teammates to prove the doubters wrong: “We are determined to show what we can do, no matter what others believe.” With minimal expectations from the public and media, it feels as though Wales might benefit from operating under the radar, attacking without the weight of needing to secure victory.
Kick-off will be broadcast live on ITV1, with coverage beginning at 7:30 PM GMT, allowing fans to tune in early for pre-match analysis. The stakes are high for Gatland, not just for this match but also for the entire tournament, as he faces scrutiny over his coaching position, following two disappointing years marked by losses and poor performances.
This tournament opener, set against the backdrop of potential bright futures and dire present realities, promises to be much more than just another rugby match. It’s about redemption for Wales and validation for France. With both teams having different trajectories, rugby aficionados are set for what promises to be an enthralling night.
The opening line-ups for the match demonstrate the tactical decisions made by both coaches under pressure:
France XV: Thibaut Flament, Antoine Dupont (captain), Romain Ntamack; and others as named.
Wales XV: Liam Williams; Tom Rogers, Owen Watkin, Nick Tompkins, Josh Adams; Ben Thomas, Tomos Williams; and others as named.
With the clash taking place at the venue known for its electrifying atmosphere, the Stade de France is expected to be alive with passion. Despite missing some key players due to injuries, France remains formidable. The match will also serve as a benchmark for Wales, who will either continue down their dreary path or spark hope for their feverish supporters.
This rivalry has had its ups and downs over the decades, with Wales historically leading the series, yet recent encounters tell another story, indicating dominance from the French side. Can Wales break this unwanted streak and give their supporters something to cheer for, or will France showcase their prowess from the outset? Only time will tell, but the rugby world will be watching intently.
Tonight's encounter isn't just about Rugby; it's about momentum, belief, and potentially setting the pace for the weeks to follow. Wales desperately seeks to shed their losing streak, and victory here could provide the much-needed confidence boost. For France, this is just one step on the road to reclaiming Six Nations glory.
It’s crystal clear: the stakes are high, and every tackle, pass, and try could redefine the future of both teams.