Donal Lenihan: Sobering reality check as France combine artistry with defiance

From the moment Fabien Galthie’s inconsistent but gifted French side lost to a clearly inferior English team at Twickenham, this game became a whole lot more difficult.

FRENCH LESSON: Damian Penaud of France breaks clear to score their fifth try during the Guinness Six Nations 2025 match. Pic: David Rogers/Getty Images

In theory at least, Ireland’s record-seeking third Six Nations championship win in a row remains a possibility. Realistically, on the back of this breathtaking performance when dismantling Ireland on an emotionally charged day at the Aviva Stadium, this year’s title is France’s for the taking.

All the French have to do is beat an enigmatic Scotland at the Stade de France on the final game on Super Saturday. With a clear knowledge of what will be required to do so, given that remaining contenders Ireland and England will both have completed their campaigns at that stage.