France's national rugby team won 34-21 against Fiji on Saturday in Bordeaux, breaking a streak of four consecutive defeats. Despite a strong start with three quick tries, the Blues struggled against the islanders' comeback before securing a hard-fought victory. Coach Fabien Galthié remains pessimistic about Pierre-Louis Barassi's injury but optimistic for Émilien Gailleton.
On Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the Matmut Atlantique in Bordeaux, France's national rugby team faced Fiji in their second autumn tour test-match, a week after a 17-32 defeat to South Africa. The Blues, led by coach Fabien Galthié, took an early lead with a strong start: Nicolas Depoortere scored the first try in the 6th minute after a break by Pierre-Louis Barassi, converted by Thomas Ramos (7-0). Julien Marchand followed in the 15th on a maul (14-0), then Charles Ollivon in the 19th after a run by Louis Bielle-Biarrey (21-0).
The Fijians woke up late in the first half. Mesake Ravouvou narrowed the gap in the 28th (21-7), and Selestino Ravutaumada finished on the hooter in the 40th (21-14), after being involved in a high tackle that sidelined Barassi for concussion protocol after just 14 minutes. His replacement, Émilien Gailleton, also left after 15 minutes. At the restart, the islanders leveled at the 50th via Semi Wainiqolo (21-21), combining with Pita Sowakula and Ilaisa Rayasi.
The Blues regained the lead with two penalties from Ramos, before Depoortere scored his second try in the 71st, converted, for a final 34-21. Grégory Alldritt sealed the win with a crucial turnover. In the post-match press conference, Galthié was pessimistic about Barassi: "I think he won't be able to resume training next week," due to the concussion. For Gailleton, he was more optimistic: "We think it'll be fine." Paul Boudehent, knee-injured, will undergo exams. Oscar Jégou shifted to center to cover the absences.
This unconvincing victory relieves the Blues ahead of their final match against Australia at the Stade de France. In the ratings, Ollivon (8) and Depoortere shone, while Régis Montagne (4.5) had a tough night.