France Stuns Australia with Second-Half Surge in Nations Championship Triumph

France overturned a nine-point halftime deficit to defeat Australia 42-26 in a thrilling Nations Championship match in Brisbane on Saturday.

Following a narrow two-point loss to New Zealand the previous week, the French team delivered a commanding second-half performance, scoring four tries to secure their first victory over Australia in Brisbane since 1972.

Australia, who also fell to Ireland by two points the prior weekend, controlled the first half but struggled to contain France’s attacking intensity after the break.

"We were very happy going into halftime leading 21-12. We positioned ourselves well, but the second half was a harsh lesson," said Australia captain Harry Wilson. "We’re losing crucial moments, and allowing a team like France to score 30 unanswered points isn’t acceptable."

In front of a packed 52,000-strong crowd under ideal conditions, both teams showcased attacking flair early on.

"It was a great challenge for us. We studied them intensively and came prepared to play," said France lock Emmanuel Meafou. "Credit to the Wallabies for a tough first half. We knew they wouldn’t back down, but our depth and player rotation allowed us to capitalize in the second half."

France opened the scoring in the third minute through Meafou’s powerful surge. Australia responded with a lineout-driven try from hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa.

Fly-half Romain Ntamack orchestrated a pivotal moment in the 18th minute, kicking through for Aaron Grandidier-Nkanang to outpace Declan Meredith and score. A yellow card for Meafou following a high tackle on Rob Valetini enabled Fraser McReight to power over for Australia, leveling the score before another McReight try extended their lead to 21-12 at halftime.

Maxime Lucu’s 46-meter penalty narrowed the gap to 21-20. France seized momentum after Australia’s Tom Wright received a yellow card for a professional foul, with Ntamack steering them ahead. Florian Verhaeghe’s try and Lucu’s second penalty extended the lead to 34-21, capped by Theo Attissogbe’s sealing try.

"We knew it wouldn’t be easy against the Wallabies. The second half showed our resilience—we kept pushing and it paid off," said Ntamack, named man of the match. "I’m proud of the entire team."

Jeremy Williams’ late try secured a consolation bonus point for Australia.

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