DUNEDIN, New Zealand — On a damp winter evening beneath the closed roof of Forsyth Barr Stadium, France delivered a seismic jolt to the rugby world. In a result few anticipated, Les Bleus defeated New Zealand 27–21, securing their first victory on Kiwi soil in 15 years and dealing Scott Robertson a stinging defeat in his coaching debut.
The match, part of a two-Test series, was expected to showcase a fresh chapter for the All Blacks following their World Cup disappointment. Instead, it became a spotlight on France’s quiet transformation into the sport’s most balanced force. The French side combined ferocious defense with tactical clarity, turning a six-point halftime deficit into a commanding finish.
“This was not about revenge or records,” French captain Charles Ollivon as BBC reported after the match. “It was about showing we are ready to lead in this game, even on foreign soil.”
The crowd of over 30,000 watched in stunned silence as the All Blacks struggled to keep pace in the second half. Winger Damian Penaud’s try, followed by a decisive effort from Nolann Le Garrec, turned the tide firmly in France’s favor. Kicker Thomas Ramos sealed the win with a near-perfect night from the tee.
New Zealand had led 16–10 at the break, buoyed by a try from Sevu Reece and the kicking precision of Richie Mo’unga. But the second half belonged entirely to France — their breakdown superiority and structured attack left the hosts grasping for rhythm. Ramos converted both second-half tries and added three penalties in total.
According to The New Zealand Herald, it was not just the scoreline but the manner of the loss that will concern New Zealand. Penalty counts (11), handling errors, and indecisiveness at the ruck hinted at deeper systemic issues, especially under pressure.
“France were more than brave — they were disciplined and clever,” wrote the Herald. “They came with a plan and executed it while the All Blacks searched for theirs.”
Robertson, whose appointment was billed as a new era for New Zealand rugby, acknowledged the setback. “We’ll learn from this. It’s a process. But that second half wasn’t up to our standard,” he said during the post-match press conference. His coaching debut has raised difficult questions about squad balance and tactical maturity.
As The Independent noted the significance of France’s tactical edge, noting their 54 percent possession and seven turnovers forced. “They controlled the pace, owned territory, and forced mistakes,” the outlet reported. “It was the kind of away performance that wins World Cups.”
France’s win also highlights a generational shift in rugby’s global order. Once unbeatable at home, the All Blacks have now lost to Ireland, Argentina, South Africa, and France in their own backyard in recent years. France’s composure under pressure was particularly visible in the final 10 minutes, when they kept possession for 13 consecutive phases to close out the match.
The defeat has triggered calls for selection changes ahead of next week’s Test in Wellington. Key questions include whether Will Jordan should start, if Jordie Barrett should be restored to fullback, and how Robertson balances flair with structure. Veteran commentators have also noted the absence of Sam Whitelock’s leadership in the tight five.
Meanwhile, France can afford to be bullish. Fabien Galthié’s men looked cohesive, confident, and unaffected by travel or occasion. The squad’s mental resolve, questioned after their World Cup quarterfinal exit, now appears to be its greatest strength. Jonathan Danty and Gaël Fickou controlled the midfield with calm authority, while Grégory Alldritt and Ollivon led a back row that constantly disrupted New Zealand’s platform.
“To come here and beat the All Blacks is monumental,” former French captain Thierry Dusautoir told. “We are not chasing history anymore. We are building it.”
As the teams prepare for Wellington, one reality is clear: the All Blacks’ aura of invincibility has cracked. And France, once the romantic outsiders of rugby, now look like its most pragmatic, dangerous force.
