Dramatic Last-Minute Try Seals England's Victory Over France in Six Nations Thriller

2025-03-01

England secured a dramatic 26-25 victory over France in the 2025 Six Nations at Twickenham, thanks to a last-minute try by Elliot Daly. The win, converted by Fin Smith, ended England’s seven-match losing streak against top-tier opposition and marked a significant turnaround for Steve Borthwick’s side.

The match was a rollercoaster, with both teams exchanging tries in a frenetic second half. France appeared to have clinched victory when Louis Bielle-Biarrey scored his second try in the 75th minute, putting Les Bleus ahead 25-19. However, England refused to relent. Fin Smith, making his full debut at fly-half, orchestrated a final push, setting up Daly for the decisive try in the 80th minute. Smith’s composure and skill were pivotal, earning him the player-of-the-match accolade.

Earlier in the game, England had fought back from a 7-0 deficit after Bielle-Biarrey’s opening try for France. Ollie Lawrence levelled the scores before half-time, and Tommy Freeman added another try in the second half. Finn Baxter’s try in the final 10 minutes briefly gave England the lead, only for Bielle-Biarrey to restore France’s advantage. But Daly’s late heroics ensured England emerged victorious.

Steve Borthwick praised his team’s resilience, highlighting their progress and the importance of trusting the young squad. France’s defence coach, Shaun Edwards, lamented his side’s uncharacteristic handling errors, which cost them crucial opportunities.

The victory revives England’s Six Nations campaign, setting up a pivotal Calcutta Cup clash against Scotland. For France, the defeat is a setback in their quest for a Grand Slam, with lessons to be learned ahead of their next fixture.

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