France has a 21–14 lead into the halftime break at Matmut Atlantique Stadium, but only after surviving a determined late fightback from Fiji in an entertaining and fast-paced opening half of their international Test.
The hosts were in complete command in the first 20 minutes, crossing for three unanswered tries as their structure, tempo and precision left Fiji scrambling.
Centre Nicolas Depoortere opened the scoring in the 6th minute, finishing a sweeping move that exposed space out wide. Hooker Julien Marchand followed soon after, muscling over from close range in the 15th minute, before captain Charles Ollivon added a third try four minutes later.
With Thomas Ramos converting all three efforts, France established a commanding 21–0 lead and appeared on track for a comfortable evening.
But the Fijians responded with trademark flair and resilience. Kalaveti Ravouvou sparked the turnaround in the 28th minute, slicing through the French defence to score Fiji’s first try of the match. Scrumhalf Simi Kuruvoli converted, giving the visitors much-needed momentum.
Fiji struck again on the stroke of halftime. Selestino Ravutaumada finished a well-constructed passage of play in the corner, igniting their supporters and tightening the contest. Kuruvoli’s second successful conversion brought the visitors within seven points as the teams headed to the sheds.
After a dominant French start and a spirited Fijian resurgence, the stage is set for a compelling second half in Bordeaux.
