A little rest in the turmoil. The players of the XV of France and their staff, after their crazy day in the form of an emotional rollercoaster (historic 96-0 victory over Namibia, fracture of the jaw for their captain), have three days to breathe. A little respite planned for a long time, in the heart of this World Cup started in early July for the preparation and 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, enjoy their 4-star hotel and the sweets of the Provencal city. Especially since they have the opportunity to welcome their loved ones and families. The coach Fabien Galthié, joined by his companion, remains on the spot, as well as a handful of players among the group of 33, such as Peato Mauvaka, Thomas Ramos or Melvyn Jaminet, seen this Friday in Aix. Most seem to have preferred to go home or treat themselves to a little getaway elsewhere.
Next match on October 6 against Italy
This welcome break is possible especially because the next match of the XV of France is scheduled in two weeks, on October 6 against Italy, in Lyon. Without Dupont, they will have to beat the Transalpines to ensure a 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 in the group. Fabien Galthié had given some news Thursday night at the Velodrome 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 came in, he came out. He made bowl, as in foosball. He won a cape but it's benign. It's a concussion protocol that he didn't pass so he didn't come back. »
The staff of the Blues will take stock of the state of each on their return from their extended weekend. But it is above all the health of their captain that will attract all eyes until then.
