SAINT DENIS – France full-back Thomas Ramos kicked 17 points as the hosts overcame New Zealand in the opening match of Rugby World Cup 2023 at the Stade de France.
The All Blacks scored after just 92 seconds when Mark Telea touched down Beauden Barrett’s precise cross-kick, but three Ramos penalties helped Les Bleus into a 9-8 half-time lead.
Telea’s second try, from Richie Mo’unga’s floated pass, put New Zealand back in front but after Damian Penaud was denied a try by Mo’unga’s tackle, France seized the momentum.
“In a World Cup game, especially on the opening day, [that’s] what matters most. That was the case today against a beautiful and fabulous All Blacks team” France’s general manager Raphael Ibanez said.
Penaud took Matthieu Jalibert’s pass to score his 30th test try and after a yellow card for All Blacks wing Will Jordan, two more Ramos penalties and a late Melvyn Jaminet try kicked off a party in Paris.
“We were expecting really hard opposition and it was a massive game. I’m proud to be French tonight,” Mastercard Player of the Match, Gregory Alldritt, said.