LIVE - New Zealand-France: All Blacks Take Lead as Blues Fight Hard in Huge Match Start in Christchurch

The French national rugby team, Les Bleus, is facing a tough challenge in their opening match of the Nations Championship, trailing the All Blacks 19-13 at halftime in Christchurch. Despite a strong initial performance and 40 solid minutes of play, France conceded a crucial try just before the break, allowing New Zealand to build a six-point lead.

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ESSSAAAIII DES BLACKS !! ROIGARD POUR LE TROISIÈME ESSAI ! Les Bleus ont fini par craquer, logiquement. À la suite d’une nouvelle touche néo-zélandaise dans les 22 mètres français, Taylor surprend la défense française avant que Roigard n’en profite pour s’engouffrer dans un intervalle et aller à l’essai ! Love transforme face aux perches ! Les Blacks creusent (un peu) l’écart avant la pause.

The All Blacks finished the first half strongly, with Roigard scoring their third try. Although De Groot initially thought he had scored a fourth, video review confirmed the ball was not grounded in the try zone. New Zealand's fly-half, Love, successfully converted Roigard's try, extending the lead.

France had moments of pressure, including a penalty kick successfully converted by scrum-half Lucu, which briefly put them back in the lead. They also mounted an impressive 18-phase attacking sequence near the New Zealand 22-meter line, demonstrating their determination and fighting spirit. However, the All Blacks, after a shaky start, have shown increasing intensity and incisiveness, putting the French defense under significant pressure.

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Lucu assure la pénalité ! Le demi de mêlée des Bleus inscrit trois points de plus, face aux perches. Sans souci ! La France reprend les commandes.

Players like Moefana have shown resilience, with one tackle described as explosive. Despite these efforts, France has found itself on the defensive in the closing minutes of the first half. The match has been characterized by immense intensity, with both teams engaging in a fierce battle for dominance.

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Énorme combat. Les Bleus viennent de réaliser 18 phases de jeu à l’orée des 22 mètres néo-zélandais. Ça tape (très) fort. Quelle séquence. L’équipe de France parvient à récupérer une pénalité.