That's right fedizens, it is time. At 2010 UTC France host Ireland to kick off the 2026 Men's Six Nations. And what a match we could have ahead. Thursday night so that Italy's winter Olympics opening ceremony has air space, and the French love a late kick off (having been at the final game last year, I know how much fun it is too!)
Looking at the game itself and we see Dupont back, alongside a championship winning side, with France being current holders. And Ireland naming a younger challenger team, who have something to prove already if the pundits and bookies are correct. Expect a low scoring affair with the rain having beaten Paris all day, and not abaiting for the match. France's size and experience to mean this does rightly favour the French. But discount Ireland at your peril, this is very much a potential banana skin that could set the tournament tone tonight.
Further ahead we see a tournament with just 1 rest week, so we are back-to-back-to-back here for the first time ever. Good, just how I like it!
As always, predictions, reactions, analysis, and shitposts all welcome here in !rugby
And sign up for the kicktipp, come on, it'll be a laugh! And lineups from https://www.rugbykickoff.com/game/france_ireland_2026-02-05/
Feel Ireland lacked punch in the forwards. For that kind of tip on game you need the forwards to be getting at least parity on the gain line, and Doris couldn’t do it all on his own. McCarthy in particular was anonymous. Noticeable difference when a second 8 in Conan came on (though ofc France’s defence was more tired).
From an England perspective I’m worried if we stick with a lightweight back row to start. Think we’re going to miss Willis massively v France, and probably have to start someone like CCS at 8 or have a lock at 6 (e.g. Chessum/Coles) to give that defensive heft for their carries off 9 and to get some go forward.
Totally agree about the forwards, Ireland were playing on the back foot all firat half. The change in second to playing off the 9 was a huge improvement, and they got the results, but damage was all done by them
England should fancy Ireland and fear France. As should we all!