The XV of France “is capable” of signing its first victory at Twickenham since 2005 in the Six Nations Tournament, captain Antoine Dupont said on Friday on the eve of facing England’s Marcus Smith, a player “more dangerous in duels” than Owen Farrell. The Blues hope to continue with another victory after that against Scotland at the Stade de France.
Journalist : You have just stepped onto the pitch at Twickenham for captain’s training. Does this temple of English rugby inspire fear?
Antoine Dupont : “We are lucky to play in big stadiums which all have incredible stories. We know that every time we travel, the matches are complicated. Even more so here, where we have not won since 2005 in the Tournament. We know how difficult it will be. But we are prepared to play these kinds of matches, they are the best to play. We have played two matches here (since the beginning of the Fabien Galthié era): one in the different context of the Autumn Nations Cup (behind closed doors), which ended in extra time with a revamped team but which could very well have won. plays very few things. So we know we are capable of doing it”.
Journalist : Is England particularly catchable this year?
Antoine Dupont : “I’m not really sure. Two years ago, a lot of people gave us favorites and we lost. They have experienced and quality players in their squad. Even if they are not in their best rugby, we know very well that they are great players who are capable of raising their level of play in the big moments and tomorrow (Saturday) will be a great moment for them (…) We know that ‘we have to win tomorrow to be able to claim victory in this Tournament after losing in Ireland”.
Journalist : What changes the tenure of Marcus Smith at the opening of the England team in place of Owen Farrell?
Antoine Dupont: “He is a player who likes to attack the line a lot, who has qualities that we all know in duels. He is a little less in management than Farrell can be. But having a player from the “Farrell’s experience on the bench will also be an asset for them at the end of the match. The team’s strategy does not depend on just one man. The two can blend into what is requested by the coach, kicking, occupying, putting pressure on the opposing team… Smith knows how to do that too. He may be more dangerous in duels than Farrell, but Farrell is very strong in defense. They have different profiles.” .