France Defeats Wales 32-18 in Six Nations Thriller to Keep Grand Slam Hopes Alive

France kept their Six Nations Grand Slam dreams alive on Saturday afternoon at Stade de France, defeating Wales 32-18 in a thrilling encounter that showcased the very best of European rugby. Captain Antoine Dupont was magnificent throughout the 80 minutes, orchestrating three tries and scoring one himself as Les Bleus overcame a spirited Welsh challenge to maintain their perfect record in the 2026 championship.

The match began with Wales showing early promise, taking a surprise 10-3 lead through a converted try from wing Louis Rees-Zammit and a penalty from fly-half Dan Biggar. The Welsh forwards were competing admirably with their French counterparts in the set pieces, while their defensive line speed was causing problems for the usually fluid French attack. However, Frances class began to show as the first half progressed, with Dupont finding space through the middle of the Welsh defense to level the scores at 10-10 just before the break.

The second half belonged entirely to the hosts, who raised their intensity and began to overwhelm Wales through their superior fitness and depth. Dupont was at the heart of everything positive for France, delivering the kind of performance that has made him the worlds best scrum-half. His vision and passing range created opportunities for wingers Damian Penaud and Yoram Moefana, while his own try in the 65th minute effectively sealed the victory and sent the 80,000 crowd into raptures.

Wales showed tremendous heart throughout the contest, with captain Alun Wyn Jones leading by example in what could be his final Six Nations appearance. The veteran lock was involved in everything, winning crucial lineouts and driving his team forward during their best periods of pressure. However, Wales simply could not match Frances pace and skill when the game opened up in the final quarter, ultimately paying the price for some costly handling errors and missed tackles.

The victory moves France to the top of the Six Nations table with three wins from three matches, putting them in prime position to claim their first Grand Slam since 2010. Coach Fabien Galthie praised his teams character and resilience, noting that Wales had provided exactly the kind of stern test that will prepare them for the remaining challenges ahead. With matches against Scotland and England still to come, France will need to maintain this level of performance to achieve their ultimate goal.

For Wales, the defeat represents another setback in what has been a disappointing campaign, though there were enough positive signs to suggest brighter days ahead under coach Wayne Pivac. The emergence of young talents like Rees-Zammit and Tommy Reffell provides hope for the future, while the continued leadership of Jones ensures the team will never lack for motivation or commitment. As both teams prepare for their next fixtures, this match will be remembered as a classic Six Nations encounter that highlighted the enduring appeal of European rugbys premier tournament.