BREAKING: France dominate Ireland 36-14 in Six Nations opener in Paris – TheLiberal.ie – Our News, Your Views



BREAKING: France dominate Ireland 36-14 in Six Nations opener in Paris




In a commanding display at the Stade de France, France launched their defence of the 2025 Six Nations title with a resounding 36-14 victory over Ireland on February 5, 2026. Les Bleus delivered a ruthless performance in the opening round, overpowering the visitors from the first whistle.

France raced into a commanding 22-0 halftime lead, showcasing clinical finishing and relentless pressure. Tries from Louis Bielle-Biarrey, Matthieu Jalibert, and others highlighted their attacking flair, while Ireland struggled to contain the hosts’ dynamic backline and forward power.

Ireland mounted a spirited second-half response, narrowing the gap with two tries to make it 29-14, but France sealed the bonus-point win with a late score from Theo Attissogbe. The final margin of 22 points underlined France’s superiority in a match that reaffirmed their status as title favourites.

This emphatic result sends a strong message across the championship as France aim for back-to-back crowns. Ireland will look to regroup quickly ahead of their next challenge.

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