A little rest in the turmoil. The players of the French XV and their staff, after their crazy day in the form of an emotional roller coaster (historic 96-0 victory over Namibia, broken jaw for their captain), have three days to breathe. A little respite planned for a long time, at the heart of this World Cup which began at the beginning of July for preparation and on September 8 for the competition.
Installed in Aix-en-Provence (Bouches-du-Rhône) since Sunday, the Blues have free time between this Friday and Sunday evening. Some have chosen to stay in Aix, enjoying their 4-star hotel and the delights of the Provençal city. Especially since they have the opportunity to welcome their loved ones and families there. Coach Fabien Galthié, joined by his partner, remains on site, as do a handful of players among the group of 33, such as Peato Mauvaka, Thomas Ramos and Melvyn Jaminet, seen this Friday in Aix. Most seem to have preferred to return home or take a short getaway elsewhere.
Next match on October 6 against Italy
This welcome break is possible in particular because the next match of the French XV is scheduled in two weeks, on October 6 against Italy, in Lyon. Without Dupont, we will have to beat the Transalpines to ensure qualification for the quarter-finals the following week, probably against the Irish or South African ogres.
The cut will also do good to the other injured people in the group. Fabien Galthié gave some news Thursday evening at the Vélodrome stadium after the success against Namibia. “Uini (Atonio), we planned to take him out at half-time. It’s the knee but nothing serious. Paul Boudehent entered, he came out. He played a bowl, like table football. He gained a cape but it’s benign. It’s a concussion protocol that he didn’t pass so he didn’t return. »
The Blues staff will provide an update on everyone’s condition upon their return from the long weekend. But it is above all the health of their captain which will attract all eyes until then.
