New Zealand Survives France Fightback in 34-32 Thriller

New Zealand has survived a France fightback to claim a Nations Championship victory that was every bit as nerve-shredding as the final scoreline suggests. Thirty-four points to thirty-two, a two-point margin, and a finish that will be talked about for weeks. I have played in tight matches at the highest level I could reach, and I know what that kind of pressure does to a team. This one had everything.

France pushed the All Blacks to the absolute limit. Les Bleus came into this contest with real attacking menace — we saw it in March when they ran England ragged in a 48-46 thriller, crossing 40 points in a game that announced just how dangerous their brand of rugby can be. They brought that same ambition here, and neither side could build the kind of cushion that lets a team manage the clock. Both went at each other with a ferocity that produced 66 points and a finish that must have had coaches and supporters from both camps in cardiac territory.

But New Zealand has survived a France fightback before, and what this result reminded me of is that clutch quality which defines the All Blacks at their very best. Protecting a two-point lead against a side proven capable of scoring in flurries is not simply a matter of talent — it demands composure, decision-making under duress, and the kind of collective nerve that only comes from a winning culture built over decades. The All Blacks found all of that when they needed it most, and that is not nothing. That is the difference between sides that win tournaments and sides that merely threaten to.

The fact that New Zealand has survived a France fightback of this intensity also tells you something about where each team is right now. France were not a dishonourable casualty. They were agonisingly close to a result that would have reshaped the standings entirely. The two-point margin is cruel, and I feel for them — but sport is unforgiving, and the table reflects only results.

For New Zealand, attention turns quickly. Italy arrive on 11 July before a blockbuster clash with Ireland on 18 July. Back-to-back wins of that quality would significantly strengthen their Nations Championship position, and given what we have just witnessed, you would be unwise to back against them finding a way. France, meanwhile, face Australia next Saturday before a trip to Japan — two fixtures they will be expected to dominate, but form and confidence need rebuilding after losing by the narrowest margin possible.

South Africa will be watching all of it very closely. The Springboks always are. And after a contest as compelling as this one, they have plenty to think about.