Ireland and France collide in a mighty meeting of Six Nations contenders that may decide the destination of this year’s title.
The hosts are still on the hunt for a grand slam as they chase an unprecedented third successive competition crown. Simon Easterby’s side overcame a sticky spell against Wales in Cardiff to continue their perfect start, but will know that this is likely to be their toughest task yet, with France showing the full, frightening extent of their attacking ability in an 11-try thrashing of Italy last time out.
That resuscitated the campaign for Fabien Galthie and his team after a sloppy, stuttering showing in the defeat to England. The French head coach again makes a bold selection call on the bench but is bolstered by the availability of Romain Ntamack after suspension. Having come up short against their rivals in the last two years, an improved performance will be required to dash Ireland’s history-making dreams.
Follow all of the latest from the Aviva Stadium in our live blog below:
Ireland and France’s contrasting styles create captivating Six Nations title showdown
The old adage of styles making fights rings true when it comes to meetings between Ireland and France. Across these last few years, at a time when the strength and depth of the championship have perhaps never been better, these pair have stood apart as Six Nations heavyweights; their annual ding-dongs almost invariably decisive to the destination of the title.
The mathematics may not be totally straightforward – England harbour faint hopes – but come Saturday afternoon, these two will crouch in their corners as the reigning, defending, history-chasing champions and a No 1 contender so capable of dealing a knockout blow. After 80 exhausting, exhilarating minutes, just one will be left standing.
Harry Latham-Coyle8 March 2025 09:15
Ireland vs France LIVE
A very good morning – are you ready? It’s time for a mighty meeting of Six Nations title contenders, Ireland and France colliding again in a likely tournament decider. Will green grand slam dreams escape intact? Or can the visitors throw a wrench in the works?
Kick off in Dublin is at 2.15pm GMT.
Harry Latham-Coyle7 March 2025 14:25
