And...we are back from a summer break with a bang! Last night, September 8th 2023, the Rugby World Cup kicked off as hosts France stunned the sport's most dominant team historically, the All Blacks, by 27 points to 13. The match, played at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, was a pulsating affair that saw both teams trade blows in front of a passionate crowd. The French started brightly and took an early lead through a try from Damian Penaud. The All Blacks responded with a try of their own from Mark Telea, but France continued to press forward and were rewarded with a second try from Penaud, this time in the corner. The All Blacks fought back in the second half and reduced the deficit to just three points, but France were not to be denied. Two late tries from Melvyn Jaminet and Antoine Dupont sealed a memorable victory for the hosts.
The win was France's first over the All Blacks in a World Cup since 2011, and it was a momentous occasion for the French team and their fans. It was also a significant result for the tournament as a whole, as it showed that there are no easy games in the Rugby World Cup. The All Blacks will be left to rue missed opportunities in this match, as they had several chances to take the lead but were unable to convert them. France will be buoyed by this victory, and it will send a message to the rest of the world that they are a force to be reckoned with in this tournament. The Rugby World Cup is still in its early stages, but this opening match has set the tone for an exciting tournament. There are still many teams to come, and it is sure to be a closely fought competition.
