Galthié Favors Flament-Meafou, Mauvaka Over Ollivon-Guillard, Lamothe in Selections
Fabien Galthié, the head coach of the French national rugby team, has announced the lineup for their upcoming match against Italy. The game is set for Sunday in Lille, kicking off at 16:10. This clash marks the third round of the Six Nations Tournament, following France’s victories over Ireland and Wales.
Key Changes in the French Rugby Squad
In a strategic decision, Galthié opted for Flament-Meafou in the second row instead of the duo of Ollivon-Guillard. He emphasized the importance of fostering competition within the squad, highlighting the need to manage player freshness throughout the tournament. With substantial rotations planned, Galthié believes it is crucial to keep the team dynamic while maintaining their established tactics.
Analyzing the Forward Line
- The choice for the second row aligns with Italy’s strong scrum performance.
- France incorporates many players from Toulouse for better synergy.
“Each decision is important,” Galthié said. He noted that Italy has consistently showcased a strong scrum presence, making the forward lineup a key consideration.
Additional Tactical Shifts
Another notable change includes Maxime Lamothe, who impressed during a recent match against Wales. As a developing talent from Pro D2, he will continue to gain experience, while Georges-Henri Colombe steps into play, having trained with the team for four weeks. This decision reflects a balance between fresh talent and seasoned players.
Resilience in the Back Row
The back row remains unchanged for the third consecutive match, with Galthié trusting in the synergy and balance of François Cros, Anthony, and the newly introduced Oscar Jegou. Jegou, a versatile player weighing under 100 kg, is credited for his endurance and ability to contribute across multiple positions.
- Cros and Jegou offer complementary skills as hybrid players.
- Lenni Nouchi, who has shown potential, can play in multiple positions.
- Paul Boudehent returns after an injury and is expected to be a leading performer.
The Rising Competence of Italian Rugby
Galthié has witnessed a notable evolution in Italian rugby over the last 35 years, identifying it as an emerging force capable of competing against top-tier nations. He pointed out Italy’s potential to defeat any team in the world’s top 10 and commended their development within international rugby.
The upcoming match not only serves as a stepping stone for France but also as a testament to Italy’s growing stature in the Rugby Union world. With the stakes high, fans can anticipate an exciting encounter that promises to highlight the evolving landscape of rugby competition.
