Les Blues semi-final defeat against New Zealand in Toulouse

However, Tricolores managed to dominate the meeting thanks to a try from Séraphine Okemba (7-5). But the impressive defense of the New Zealanders, crowned with the world title even before the end of the Toulouse stage, stifled the French team. Unable to force the lock, the Blues even conceded four tries at the end of the game, giving the score an extreme measure.

“Obviously we are disappointed with the resultbreathe Captain Carla Nessen. We let them play a little bit. The attempts they put in, they are given. We’re not going to take them high, but it’s our system that’s blocking the arms, and I think we could have put a little more pressure on that. » “We’ve never come close to putting them in trouble but lacking realism and against them, it’s unforgivable.”Joanna Griese regrets that she has moved on. This is the step we still have to take. »

General repacking of the third position

The French still have a chance to get to the podium in Toulouse. “We must not lower our heads, but go to third place”Neisen claims. Before New Zealand takes on the United States in the final at 5:26pm, Les Bleues will play the mini-final against Australia at 4:37pm. An opponent they know well since they dominated Saturday in the group stage (12-19).

“Unfortunately, we’re a little used to this third place, we’ve played a lot in recent seasons, but we have the strength to switch quickly during the day.”Grisez confides. The Blues will attempt to avenge their female counterparts by beating New Zealand, whom they will also face in the semi-finals (1:54 p.m. ET).