Edinburgh, Scotland – Fabien Galthié, the head coach of the French national rugby team, has announced the starting XV for their highly anticipated Six Nations match against Scotland this Saturday at Murrayfield. The team selection sees the return of key players Matthieu Jalibert, Nicolas Depoortere, and Yoram Moefana, signaling a significant shift in personnel from the recent victory over Italy.
This match carries substantial weight for Les Bleus, who remain in contention for both the Six Nations Championship and a potential Grand Slam. A bonus-point victory against Scotland would put France in a commanding position, potentially securing the title before their final match against England at the Stade de France. The game is scheduled for a 3:15 PM local time kickoff (15:15 CET) on Saturday, March 7th, and will be broadcast live on TF1 and TF1+.
Key Changes to the Starting Lineup
Galthié has made five changes to the team that defeated Italy 33-8. The most notable adjustments come in the backline, with the return of Jalibert at fly-half and the center pairing of Depoortere and Moefana. Both players were sidelined due to injury in earlier matches but have been deemed fit to return to the starting lineup.
Jalibert’s inclusion is a boost for the French attack, having missed the Italy game with a calf injury. Depoortere and Moefana will slot back into the midfield, replacing Emilien Gailleton and Fabien Brau-Boirie, who filled in during their absence. The back three remains unchanged, featuring Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Théo Attissogbe on the wings, and Thomas Ramos at fullback.
Forwards See Minor Adjustments
In the forwards, Anthony Jelonch has been declared fit to play despite concerns over a right calf injury. He will start at blindside flanker, alongside Oscar Jegou and François Cros. Charles Ollivon also returns to the starting lineup, partnering with Mickaël Guillard in the second row. Ollivon had previously been on the bench.
The front row remains consistent, with Jean-Baptiste Gros, Julien Marchand, and Dorian Aldegheri forming the starting trio. This provides a familiar and experienced base for the French pack.
The Full Squad
Here is the complete XV that will represent France against Scotland:
France XV: Ramos – Attissogbe, Depoortere, Moefana, Bielle-Biarrey – (o) Jalibert, (m) Dupont (capt.) – Jegou, Jelonch, Cros – Guillard, Ollivon – Aldegheri, Marchand, Gros.
Replacements: Mauvaka, Neti, Bamba, Flament, Meafou, Nouchi, Serin, Barassi.
What Which means for France’s Six Nations Campaign
The return of key players like Jalibert and the established center pairing of Depoortere and Moefana provides a significant boost to France’s attacking options. Jalibert’s playmaking ability and Moefana and Depoortere’s powerful running lines will be crucial against a physical Scottish defense. Scotland represents a formidable challenge, particularly at home at Murrayfield, and a win would put France in a very strong position to claim the Six Nations title.
France currently leads the Six Nations standings after three rounds, with three consecutive victories. A bonus-point win against Scotland would all but guarantee the championship, setting up a potentially decisive final match against England. However, Scotland will be a stern test, and France will need to be at their best to secure a positive result.
The selection of Jelonch, despite his recent injury concern, demonstrates Galthié’s faith in the experienced flanker’s ability to contribute to the team’s physicality and breakdown work. Ollivon’s return to the starting lineup adds further experience and leadership to the pack.
For fans following the tournament, this match is a pivotal moment. The outcome will significantly impact the race for the Six Nations title and could determine whether France can complete a Grand Slam. The game promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of the tournament’s strongest teams.
Following the match against Scotland, France will face England in Paris in the final round of the Six Nations. The outcome of that match will ultimately decide the fate of the championship.
