In anticipation of their highly anticipated opening World Cup match against New Zealand this Friday, the French national rugby team has made some key selections, with Yoram Moefana set to take center stage as the inside center. This decision comes as a response to the unfortunate injury sidelining Jonathan Danty, who was initially slated to play in that position.
Yoram Moefana, a 23-year-old rugby talent, will proudly don the number 12 jersey in the forthcoming clash. However, his selection wasn’t the only change to the French lineup, as the regular France 10, Romain Ntamack, is unable to participate in the tournament due to injury. Fly-half Matthieu Jalibert will be partnering with Antoine Dupont in the halves, a formidable combination that is expected to spearhead France’s campaign.
Another absence for the French squad will be prop Cyril Baille, who is nursing an injury and will miss the opener in Paris. French head coach Fabien Galthie expressed confidence in his chosen lineup, stating, “We’re getting into this match with the best France team.”
Yoram Moefana, with 18 international caps under his belt, will be partnering with the experienced Gael Fickou in the midfield, while Antoine Dupont will have the honor of captaining the side. However, one notable omission from the matchday 23 is lock Bastien Chalureau.
Bastien Chalureau, aged 31, has recently faced controversy as he denied accusations of racism after being called up to the France squad as injury cover. Chalureau is currently appealing against a six-month prison sentence for his alleged involvement in a racially motivated attack in 2020.
The French national team is determined to secure their first-ever World Cup title, following their preparations, which culminated in a convincing 41-17 victory over Australia.
The French starting lineup to face New Zealand is as follows: Ramos; Penaud, Fickou, Moefana, Villiere; Jalibert, Dupont (capt); Wardi, Marchand, Atonio, Woki, Flament, Cros, Ollivon, Alldritt. The replacements include: Mauvaka, Gros, Aldegheri, Taofifenua, Boudehent, Lucu, Vincent, Jaminet.
The eyes of the rugby world will be on this exciting clash as France takes on New Zealand in what promises to be a thrilling World Cup opener.
