XV de France Grapples with Past Defeat and Roster Challenges Ahead of South Africa Rematch

The French rugby team, XV de France, is preparing for a crucial rematch against South Africa at Stade de France, still carrying the weight of their narrow 28-29 quarter-final loss in the 2023 World Cup. Forwards coach William Servat acknowledged that the defeat "has left traces," especially as the South African Rugby Federation has highlighted moments from the previous encounter, including Thomas Ramos's missed conversion. However, Servat emphasized a fresh approach, noting that the current team includes new players and coaching staff, and insisted that this match should be treated as a new challenge.

Several key absences will affect the squad's lineup; Antoine Dupont is sidelined due to injury, and Thomas Ramos will not participate because of personal reasons. On a positive note, Romain Ntamack, who missed the 2023 match due to injury, now has an opportunity to revive his career with this game.

Meanwhile, the team's fullback options have been influenced by off-field controversies. Melvyn Jaminet remains excluded from the national team after making racist remarks during a 2024 Argentina tour, resulting in a 34-week suspension. Despite strong performances for his club Toulon, he was not called up for the current autumn tour, with FFR president Florian Grill describing his selection as "complicated" due to the impact on the federation's relationships. Cheikh Tiberghien has been called up to contest the fullback position in Jaminet's absence.

As France prepares for this significant showdown against South Africa, the team balances the emotional aftermath of past defeat with strategic decisions shaped by both on-field injuries and off-field disciplinary considerations.