Rugby World Cup 2023: Recap - France vs All Blacks
9:23 am on 9 September 2023
Fullback Melvyn Jaminet, left, celebrates with flanker Paul Boudehent after scoring a late try during the France 2023 Rugby World Cup Pool A match between France and New Zealand at Stade de France. Photo: AFP
It is the first time the All Blacks have lost a pool match in a World Cup.
It's the Rugby World Cup opener that's too close to call - with the All Blacks slight favourites among local bookmakers but France given a small edge overseas.
Opinion - Given the turbulence that both sides have been through in recent weeks, the All Blacks opener against France is extremely tough to call, writes Jamie Wall.
The All Blacks took a record beating by South Africa last month, but France are wary of the threat the New Zealanders will pose in the World Cup opener.