Since the Six Nations’ establishment in 2000, England and France have met annually in contests that frequently influence the tournament’s final standings. While England maintains a slight advantage in their overall encounters within the Six Nations framework, France has consistently challenged English aspirations with notable victories.
This rivalry has produced memorable moments, including England’s commanding 48-15 triumph in Paris in 2000 and France’s record-setting 53-10 victory over England at Twickenham in 2023, marking their largest win against the English team. Over the years, the matches have highlighted differing styles of play, with England typically favoring a structured, forward-oriented approach, while France has often excelled with its flair and spontaneous attacking prowess. The rivalry has featured Grand Slam deciders, intense physical confrontations, and instances of individual brilliance from players such as Jonny Wilkinson, Serge Betsen, Martin Johnson, and Antoine Dupont.
France’s successes in the Six Nations during 2002, 2004, 2010, and 2022 were characterized by pivotal victories over England, showcasing their capacity to perform under pressure against their rivals across the Channel. Conversely, England’s Grand Slam victories in 2003, 2016, and 2020 included commanding displays against Les Bleus. The psychological aspect of the rivalry is as significant as the tactical one, with Twickenham and the Stade de France creating daunting environments that have historically impacted results. England’s formidable pack often seeks to dominate the French forwards, while France aims to capitalise on mismatches through agile halfbacks and explosive wingers. In recent years, momentum has shifted towards France, as they have emerged as one of the premier teams globally, yet England will be resolute in their quest to regain supremacy in 2025.
So what do England need to do to take down the French at the Allianz Stadium on Saturday?
Utilise the Dual Playmaker Strategy
England are rumoured to initiate the match with Fin Smith in the fly-half position while shifting Marcus Smith to the full-back role. This strategy is designed to broaden their attacking capabilities and takeadvantage of France’s inclination to execute long kicks. Richard Wigglesworth, the backs coach for England, emphasised the opportunity this configuration presents to introduce a fresh aspect to their gameplay. Freddie Steward is said to be moved onto the bench after a mediocre performance against Ireland last week. The fullback has been notably flat footed in defence in England’s last few games after being easily sidestepped by Grant Williams in the autumn and Gibson-Park at the weekend.
Counteract Antoine Dupont
What can be done to neutralise the french rugby wizard? Wales emphasised this repeatedly last week in the lead up to the game but their efforts were futile. Containing Dupont seems nearly impossible. In the past England had their own weapon in Courtney Lawes to contain threats in the half back positions. However now that the veteran has hung up his International boots England will need other powerful forwards to step up. England’s best bet is to use the captain- Maro Itoje. The 6 foot 6 Saracens man needs to keep a beady eye on the Scrum Half and wrap him up at every opportunity. Which we can all agree is easier said than done.
Select a strong back row
Tom Curry was immense at the Aviva Stadium last weekend and we will expect to see again in the starting XV. Tom Willis is also set to start at number 8 as England aim to fortify their physicality and ball carrying ability. Earl is expected to move to blindside, with Ben Curry to drop to the bench. England have got an enormous amount of depth in the back row, but Borthwick needs to find his top three men and stick with them.
Discipline
The recent defeat of England by Ireland underscored significant lapses in focus and discipline. It is imperative to rectify these shortcomings, as France is likely to exploit any errors especially with their world class ability to counter attack. Sustaining composure and strictly following the game plan for the duration of the match will be vital.
Adapt to Injuries
Cadan Murley is out with an injury. The winger scored on debut last week within the first 10 minutes and assisted Tom Currys try late in the game. Murley had a few shaky moments too but ultimately is a huge loss for the men in white. Alex Lozowski has been called up into the squad, but we would expect to see Ollie Sleightholme on the left. Not a bad replacement after a thrilling autumn nation series for the Northampton man.
