The France Ireland Six Nations opener finished with France defeating Ireland 36-14 at the Stade de France. The match was played on 5 February 2026. It marked the opening fixture of the 2026 Six Nations Championship. France scored five tries and secured a bonus-point win. Ireland scored two tries after halftime.
France established control early in the match. They built a large lead before the break. Ireland failed to score in the first half.
France Ireland Six Nations Opener Dominated Before Half-Time
The France Ireland Six Nations opener saw France take a 22-0 lead by halftime. Louis Bielle-Biarrey scored the opening try near the corner. Thomas Ramos converted the score. Matthieu Jalibert added a second try following sustained pressure. Ramos later kicked a penalty to extend the lead.
France’s third try came in the 34th minute. Charles Ollivon crossed the line after a lineout move. Ramos added the conversion. France controlled territory and possession throughout the first half. Ireland were unable to break through France’s defensive line.
France Ireland Six Nations Opener Continues with Second-Half Tries
The France Ireland Six Nations opener continued with further scoring after the interval. Bielle-Biarrey scored his second try in the 46th minute. Ramos converted to increase France’s advantage.
Ireland responded later in the second half. Nick Timoney scored Ireland’s first try around the 59th minute. Michael Milne added a second try shortly afterward. Sam Prendergast converted both scores. Ireland reduced the deficit but remained behind.
France scored their fifth and final try late in the match. Théo Attissogbe crossed the line following an attacking phase. Ramos converted again to complete the scoring.
The final score remained 36-14. France collected maximum points from the opening round. Ireland left Paris without a bonus point. The match concluded the first fixture of the 2026 Six Nations Championship.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/sports/france-dominate-ireland-36-14-six-nations-opener-2026-02-05/