Reaction: All Blacks lose to France in Rugby World Cup 2023 opener

PARIS, FRANCE - SEPTEMBER 08: The New Zealand players look dejected at full-time following the Rugby World Cup France 2023 Pool A match between France and New Zealand at Stade de France on September 08, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)

France overcame conceding sloppy tries at the start of each half to beat the All Blacks 27-13 in an intense opening match of the Rugby World Cup, ending the All Blacks’ run of 31 straight wins in the pool stage.

Prolific right winger Damian Penaud grabbed a crucial try 15 minutes into the second half, and France never let the lead go. Fullback Thomas Ramos punished All Blacks errors from the tee. He finished with 19 points from seven of nine kicks at goal.

Mark Telea scored after just 93 seconds to give New Zealand an ideal start at Stade de France, and then again three minutes into the second half.

But replacement fullback Melvyn Jaminet capped a fine night with a try in the final seconds to give coach Fabien Galthié real hope of leading France to its first World Cup title after losing three finals.

France led by a flattering 9-8 at the interval.

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