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'If there's one fixture that France could become unstuck on, it's this one'
By Josh Raisey
A Scotland side with a burgeoning injury list have the daunting task of trying to repress arguably the most formidable force in world rugby currently when they host France this Saturday in the Guinness Six Nations.
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Gregor Townsend’s side will be hoping to bounce back from a loss to Wales in Cardiff after an uplifting win over England in round one, while France will be hoping the fallow week has not stultified any momentum they built with their win over Ireland at the Stade de France.
When, where and how to watch the match
The match will kick-off at 14:15 (UK) on Saturday February 26th at Murrayfield and will be broadcast live on the BBC in the UK, Virgin Media in Ireland, Stan Sport in Australia and SuperSport in South Africa.
Head-to-head
France lead Scotland in their head-to-head series with 56 wins to Scotland’s 39, with three draws. It has been a lot closer over their past ten matches though, with five matches won apiece, which includes Scotland’s first win in Paris for the first time in 22 years in the 2021 Championship.
Match odds from bet365
bet365 have the handicap on France at -7, with 12/5 odds that Scotland win. There are also 7/10 odds the visitors win both halves in Edinburgh.
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Prediction
Pundit Brian Moore said he did not expect France to lose in Edinburgh this weekend on his Full Contact podcast, but both he and his guest, former England international Tom May, agreed that this is the one fixture that could prove problematic for Fabien Galthie’s side.
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“If there’s one fixture that France could become unstuck on, I’d highlight this one,” May said. “I think it’s supposed to be pretty grim conditions again in Edinburgh.
“The one thing I think stands France in very good stead is the focus Raphael Ibanez had after the game [against Ireland], they moved straight on. They’re very different in the way they compose themselves. I think that might come from Shaun Edwards.
“The way you saw the coaches going around the players after the game, they’re obviously very close. They’re hugely focused. Almost as you walked into the Stade de France you felt not only the team but the fans also felt there is something happening within French rugby that is really pulling towards France 2023.”
*Odds accurate as of 22/02/22.
