France Angleterre rugby - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. The France vs England rugby rivalry is one of the oldest and most intense in the sport. The two teams first played each other in 1906 and have faced off over 100 times since then.
- 2. The rivalry is often referred to as "Le Crunch" and is known for its physicality and competitiveness. Matches between France and England are always highly anticipated by fans and players alike.
- 3. England currently holds the edge in the head-to-head record, with more wins than France overall. However, France has had periods of dominance in the rivalry, particularly in the 1980s and early 2000s.
- 4. The two teams compete in the Six Nations Championship, an annual competition between the six top European rugby nations. Matches between France and England in the Six Nations are always hotly contested.
- 5. Some of the most memorable moments in the France vs England rivalry include the "Ballet on Ice" match in 1987, when France defeated England in a snowstorm, and the 2016 match in which England secured a Grand Slam victory in Paris.
- 6. Both France and England have rich rugby traditions and have produced some of the greatest players in the sport's history. French legends like Serge Blanco and England icons like Jonny Wilkinson have left their mark on the rivalry.
- 7. Matches between France and England often feature passionate and vocal crowds, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the stadiums. The rivalry extends beyond the players on the field to the supporters in the stands.
- 8. The rivalry between France and England is not limited to the senior national teams. The two countries also compete at the youth and club levels, further fueling the intense competition between them.
- 9. Matches between France and England are known for their physicality and high level of skill. Both teams have a reputation for playing attractive, attacking rugby, making their clashes exciting to watch for fans.
- 10. The France vs England rugby rivalry is a storied and historic one that continues to captivate fans around the world. Whether in the Six Nations Championship or in other competitions, matches between these two nations are always eagerly anticipated and fiercely contested.