The reaction of the XV of France is expected. Authors of a disappointing performance last week against Uruguay (27-12), Fabien Galthié’s men must win their third group match in style against Namibia, Thursday September 21, against Namibia. And if possible with the offensive bonus at stake.
The return of the executives. Cyril Baille and Jonathan Danty are there. After missing the start of the World Cup due to injuries, they will bring all their power in attack and defense, hoping for an offensive awakening of the XV of France. Anthony Jelonch, aligned last week for the first time with the Blues after his cruciate ligament rupture, will play his second match within a very solid and experienced third line.
The absence of Grégory Alldritt. The captain of the La Rochelle team felt discomfort in his knee during the last training session. In agreement with the staff, he will remain in the stands of the Vélodrome in order to recover as quickly as possible and be ready to face Italy on October 6 in a match which will be decisive. Anthony Jelonch will replace him at number 8.
The tiny hope of a nation that has never won. The Welwitschias are participating in their seventh consecutive World Cup and still do not have a single victory. With 22 defeats to its credit, the 21st nation in the world rankings is no stranger to disappointment. She suffered one of the biggest slaps in history: 140-0 against Australia in 2003. Her greatest achievement remains that against Georgia in 2015, where she only lost by one point. (16-17). After scoring eight points against Italy then three against New Zealand, the Namibians aspire to do better against the French.