In a match filled with tension and drama, England managed to snatch a 26-25 victory over France in their Six Nations encounter at Twickenham on February 8, 2025. This last-minute triumph was a much-needed morale booster for England, ending their painful seven-game losing streak against Tier One nations. Elliot Daly became the man of the moment, with his converted try in the dying seconds of the game flipping the script from a 25-19 disadvantage, preventing yet another defeat against elite competition.
The victory was particularly sweet for England, considering their previous drubbing at the hands of France, who had effortlessly claimed a 53-10 win at Twickenham back in 2023. Heading into the match, France was in blistering form, having delivered a 43-0 hammering to Wales in their opening game of the Six Nations. Many saw them as formidable challengers, but England proved they could rise to the occasion, shaking off recent disappointments.
A Bold Strategy and Daring Decisions
Under the guidance of coach Steve Borthwick, England took an unorthodox approach with their team selection. The decision to start Fin Smith at fly-half and shift Marcus Smith to full-back was a gamble that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The match opened with England displaying early pressure, though France managed to secure a lead of 13-7 by halftime. The ebb and flow of the game exemplified the classic, unpredictable nature of rugby, keeping spectators engrossed until the very end.
The final minutes of the game saw England rally courageously, with Daly's try standing as the ultimate expression of their fighting spirit. It wasn’t just about the scoreboard; it was a battle of wills and strategy.
Reacting to Victory
Post-match, England's Maro Itoje remarked on the palpable pressure that dominated the game. However, he downplayed its significance, stating, "Pressure is the air we breathe, it’s the arena we operate in," echoing the sentiment that top athletes thrive under such conditions. This victory rekindles hope for England’s campaign after they stumbled against Ireland in the opener.
For France, the narrow loss puts a dent in their momentum as they gear up for a crucial clash with Ireland. Although this defeat was unexpected, it adds an exciting layer to the tournament's narrative, ensuring that the Six Nations remains a gripping spectacle.
