Rugby
New Zealand vs France Preview: Odds, Tips and Prediction
Venue: Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin Kickoff Time: 09:05 (CAT Time) France will likely use this tour to blood in new talent, but there will certainly not be any love lost on the part of the All Blacks. This first match in Dunedin is likely to set the tone for an explosive tour, with the hosts no doubt wanting to assert home dominance. For fans wanting to get involved, we suggest looking at reputable rugby betting sites for all of the latest odds and extra insights.
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Beauden Barrett and Antoine Dupont compete for the ball//Getty Images
Pre-Game Odds and Win Probability
The early online betting suggests a rather straightforward win for the hosts here. while it might be the set bet, beware the French flair!
New Zealand: 1/2 (1.50) – 67%
France: 2/1 (3.00) – 33.3%
Head-To-Head Record
Last three meetings
16/11/2024: France 30-29 New Zealand
08/09/2023: France 27-13 New Zealand
20/11/2021: France 40–25 New Zealand
New Zealand Current Form – WWWLW
The All Blacks will come into this fixture high on confidence and looking to unleash an uncompromising attack on their French visitors. They have managed to keep hold of their momentum and will only be buoyed by the fact that their home record is simply sublime.
Scott Robertson will look forward to seeing his squad reach the heights they are otherwise capable of and with his dynamic forward pack and exciting backline, they will look to make a statement here.
Key Players to Watch
- Ardie Savea: He is a loose forward who truly embodies everything it means to pull an All-Blacks jersey over your shoulders. He is a game changer in any team and his presence in this New Zealand forward pack just oozes confidence.
- Beauden Barrett: Another rugby nation with a veteran fly-half. His creativity and experience at the head of their attack see him quickly become a general for New Zealand and someone likely to have a big say in this encounter.
- Will Jordan: A winger who has become rather exciting to watch, he carries a constant threat on the outside and is a master in broken play. Back the winger to find space and time against the French once again here.
France Current Form – WLWWW
If their Six Nations performance was anything to go by, the French approach this encounter with a mixed bag of results and an ‘almost there’ confidence. Their key starters were rested in preparation for this tour of New Zealand, but the ambition of the Fabien Galthie and his chargers is simply going to be an ambitious quest at an upset in New Zealand.
Key Players to Watch
- Gregory Alldritt: Their big and physical number eight adds to their defensive stability but also adds to their attacking nature and is a crucial player for French momentum. Keep an eye on the big forward – especially in the physical moments of the encounter.
- Antoine Dupont: There is, of course, question marks over whether or not he will be fit for this encounter, but he is undoubtedly the heartbeat of this team and just being selected in this squad raises the confidence and tempo of his chargers.
- Damian Penaud: A backline player with incredible speed and finishing ability. His counter-attacking threat is simply second to none and his brash nature on the rugby field make him a player suited for these sorts of environments. Keep an eye on him here.
Suggested Bets
New Zealand (Half-Time/ Full-Time): Expect them to be dominant at home and show that dominance in the scoreline. There is also a lot of value in this line of betting. 11/10 (2.1) with Betway.
Total Points (Over 45.5): The attacking threat of both teams suggests a relatively open game could ensue from both sides here. 9/10 (1.9) with Hollywoodbets.
Value Bets
France + 15.5: France could easily cover the advertised handicap here. They are likely to match the physicality of the hosts and that could keep them in the game here. 12/10 (2.2) with Supabets.
Damian Penaud (Anytime Goalscorer): Given his ability to exploit space and time out wide, back the dynamic French ace to convert and earn France some exciting points 3/1 (4.0) with 10Bet.
Prediction: New Zealand to Win
The home form of the All-Blacks adds an advantage and belief to a side already brimming with confidence and ability. The French will always play with a degree of flair and excitement, but the hosts might just have too much for them here.
For those looking to get in on the action, checking out the best signup bonus sports betting offers could be a smart move ahead of kickoff
Ryan Liberty is an experienced sports writer whose articles have featured in some of the biggest sports publications in South Africa. With a strong understanding of all major sports and an in-depth understanding of betting, Ryan consistently delivers insightful content. He's also known for his ability to break down complex topics into engaging, reader-friendly pieces.
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