During a press conference before the opening match between France and New Zealand, Aaron Smith discussed the qualities of his French counterpart, Antoine Dupont. He specifically mentioned that the All Blacks had devised a strategy to counter the captain of the French national team.
Antoine Dupont will be closely monitored on Friday (9:15 PM) against New Zealand, for the opening match of the World Cup. Aaron Smith, the scrum-half of the All Blacks, assured this to the press on Thursday. « Defensively, our game relies heavily on Dupont, what he can do and how to stop him, » acknowledged Smith, 34 years old and one of the decade’s top N.9 references. « But it’s not just my personal role, but that of the entire team, » explained Dupont’s direct opponent. « Not to mention that they have many dangerous players all over the field. »
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« Il est un athlète extraordinaire et un joueur exceptionnel. Il a démontré cela au cours des dernières années en remportant des récompenses », a encore complimenté Smith, admiratif envers le Français, qui a été désigné meilleur joueur du monde en 2021. « Toutes les équipes qu’il a affrontées avaient une stratégie pour le contrer. Nous avons la nôtre et nous allons la mettre en œuvre », a-t-il averti.
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Despite the historic defeat suffered against South Africa (35-7) in their last preparation match, Ian Foster’s men, like their captain Sam Cane, all expressed their « impatience » for this first match. « It is a privilege to be able to play this opening match of the World Cup against the host country, undoubtedly considered the favorite, » said the third row. « It’s going to be a really special moment. I can’t think of a better way to start our World Cup. Hopefully, there will be some magical moments. »
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