Rugby World Cup: Les Bleues make a successful debut by beating Italy (24-0)

Three converted tries and no points conceded. The French women handled their first match of the 2025 Rugby World Cup well, dominating Italy (24-0) on Saturday, August 23rd, on the Exeter pitch. While the Blues may regret not having scored an additional try, synonymous with an offensive bonus, the main thing is assured: victory.

It took a while for it to take shape. A muddled start to the match, the French women only scored one try in the first half through their winger Joanna Grisez (28th), converted by Morgane Bourgeois, who added a penalty (40th) before the break. 10-0 to the lemons, not enough to be completely relaxed.

The second half was a little more exciting, with Assia Khalfaoui (45th) and then Charlotte Escudero (62nd) both touching down in the Italian in-goal area. This confirmed their first victory in the competition. Les Bleues now have a week's rest before facing Brazil on Sunday, August 31.