France 37-23 Argentina, Paris
France delivered a commanding performance to conclude their Autumn Nations Series, defeating Argentina 37-16 in Paris.
The victory marked Les Bleus’ third win in as many matches during the series, highlighting their dominance ahead of the Six Nations opener in February.
An early sin-bin for Argentina captain Julián Montoya set the tone for France, who capitalized on their numerical advantage. Thibaud Flament crossed the line in the 10th minute to open the scoring. Thomas Ramos’ reliable boot extended France’s lead, while Gabin Villiere added a second try on the 34th minute.
Just minutes later, Louis Bielle-Biarrey was denied a certain try by Juan Martín González, who was penalized for deliberately palming the ball away. The infringement resulted in a penalty try, giving France a commanding 30-9 lead by halftime.
The Pumas showed resilience in the second half, with Thomas Gallo powering over the line in the 57th minute to narrow the gap. However, France quickly responded as Bielle-Biarrey chased his own kick to score and restore their 21-point lead.
Despite a late try from Ignacio Ruiz for Argentina, the contest was firmly under French control, handing the Pumas their second successive defeat.
France ends their 2024 campaign with a perfect Autumn Nations Series, having defeated Japan, New Zealand, and Argentina. Fabien Galthié’s side demonstrated their resilience by overturning a deficit to edge out
New Zealand 30-29 last weekend and displayed total control against Argentina.
With momentum firmly behind them, Les Bleus will host Wales in their Six Nations opener at Stade de France in just over two months, confident of continuing their impressive form.
Team line up:
France: Barre; Villiere, Fickou, Moefana, Bielle-Biarrey; Ramos, Dupont; Gros, Mauvaka, Atonio, Flament, Meafou, Cros, Boudehent, Ollivon.
Reserves: Marchand, Wardi, Colombe, Roumat, Guillard, Gazzotti, Le Garrec, Gailleton.
Argentina: Mallia; Isgro, Cinti, Moroni, Delguy; Albornoz, Garcia; Gallo, Montoya, Sclavi, Petti, Rubiolo, Matera, Gonzalez, Oviedo.
Reserves: Ruiz, Calles, Kodela, Molina, Kremer, Velez, S Carreras, M Carreras.