France v New Zealand: Prediction, Tips and Odds

Two of the top-four sides in the world rankings meet in Paris on Saturday evening, as France and New Zealand collide.

It’s a repeat of the opening game of the 2023 World Cup, when Les Bleus ran out 27-13 victors on home soil, but it was the All Blacks that progressed further in the tournament.

Both teams collected wins in last weekend’s Autumn Internationals to set up what looks like being a classic encounter between two rugby powerhouses.

France v New Zealand betting tips and predictions 

New Zealand to win – 6/5

Last year’s World Cup clash was only a 14th win for France in 63 meetings with New Zealand, but both teams have been far from their best since that tournament.

The French have been beaten by Ireland and Argentina in their last nine Tests, whilst also being held to a 13-13 draw at home to Italy in February’s Six Nations.

Since losing in the World Cup final to South Africa, the All Blacks have lost three of their last 11 internationals, including a 30-38 defeat to Argentina in Wellington back in August.

However, following September’s 18-12 loss to the Springboks, Scott Robertson looks to have turned things around with five victories in a row.

France will welcome back fit-again full-back Romain Buros, in one of four changes, while a number of younger players are set to be given their chance.

Louis Bielle-Biarrey is one of those younger stars, with the 21-year-old winger seeking a ninth international try.

Another is prop Tevita Tatafu, who makes just his second senior appearance for France, having impressed in last week’s 52-12 win over Japan.

The All Blacks have recalled veteran duo Beauden Barrett and Codie Taylor, while Robertson has reshuffled his back row with Sam Cane missing through injury.

Ardie Savea will start at Number Seven, with Wallace Sititi playing at Number Eight and Samipeni Finau at blindside. 

New Zealand appear to have more experience than their hoists and that should help them edge towards a narrow victory.

Number of Tries: Over 5.5 Tries – 8/13

The points have also been flowing for the All Blacks in recent months, with an average of 35 points per game during their five-match winning run – which includes victories over both England and Ireland.

Meanwhile, Fabien Galthie’s men - who are fourth in the world rankings - have scored 85 points in their last two home internationals.

There has been an average of 54.3 points scored per game in the last six meetings between these two sides.

That includes a 40-25 success for the hosts in their last Autumn international at the Stade de France in November 2021.

Both teams are notorious for playing free-flowing, attacking rugby and another high-scoring clash looks likely on Saturday.

Anytime Tryscorer: Beauden Barrett – 10/3

Nobody in the New Zealand squad has more international experience than Beauden Barrett, who will be fresh for this Paris clash.

The 33-year-old will wear the number 10 jersey having missed the win over Ireland and he could be a crucial figure for the All Blacks.

Barrett has 44 international tries to his name, with four of those scores coming against France – including his first All Blacks try in June 2013.

The Blues star will be joined in the starting XV by his brothers Jordie and Scott and he looks a prime candidate to grab a try.

Read more rugby union news on site

France v New Zealand odds

France - 8/11
Tie - 18/1
New Zealand - 6/5

View the full market and more odds for France v New Zealand on site

This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.