France

France has come close to winning the Rugby World Cup on two occasions, and is responsible for two of the biggest upsets in Rugby World Cup history. Renowned for its unpredictability and flair, France is overdue for a Rugby World Cup title.

Nickname: Les Bleu
Coach: Marc Lièvremont
Best World Cup Performance: Runners-up (1987, 1999)

2011 Rugby World Cup

France will enter the 2011 Rugby World Cup as a genuine threat to the title aspirations of the other major contenders. Backed by the biggest and most wealthy domestic league in the world, France has fast- tracked its rugby development and has the players to win the Rugby World Cup.

The French are unlikely to be caught napping by lower ranked teams in the 2011 World Cup, and will focus on consistency as they attempt to win their first Rugby World Cup. The knockout stages of the tournament will be crucial, and the French will have to prove that they have the patience and the determination to win consistently.

Rugby World Cup History

France has played in every Rugby World Cup tournament contested to date. The French excelled at the first Rugby World Cup by reaching the final at Eden Park, before losing to the All Blacks 29-9.

After a disappointing quarterfinal exit at the 1991 Rugby World Cup, France was again in top form in South Africa in 1995, and were unlucky to be knocked out of the tournament by a controversial Springbok try late in the match.

In 1999 France produced one of the greatest moments in World Cup history, coming from behind to rout title favourite New Zealand and reaching the final. The 1999 Rugby World Cup eventually ended in defeat for the French, as it they were once again forced to take second place by Australia.

In 2003 France made the semi-finals of the Rugby World Cup for the fourth time, but were no match for eventual champions England. In 2007 France once again proved to be New Zealand’s downfall by knocking the All Blacks out of the Rugby World Cup in a thrilling quarterfinal, before losing to England in a dour semi-final.

Strengths

France has repeatedly proven that it is the finest team in the world when playing at its peak. The creativity of the back line is complemented by a strong, organised defence, and some of the finest loose forwards in international rugby. The French are particularly dangerous when underestimated.

Weaknesses

France’s greatest weakness isn’t related to technical issues, but rather to the French temperament. Whilst the French are capable of beating the best on their day, they are equally capable of capitulating the next day with a dreadful, disorganised performance. France will need to develop the composure to win several high-pressure matches in succession in order to claim the biggest prize in rugby.