It is still a scar for everyone, says French coach of World Cup defeat to Springboks

France’s attack coach Patrick Arlettaz has admitted Les Bleus remain haunted by their Rugby World Cup quarter-final defeat to South Africa and are desperate to settle the score when the teams clash again in Paris on Saturday.

France attack coach Patrick Arlettaz has confirmed what everyone already knew — Les Bleus are desperate to avenge their World Cup quarter-final loss to the Springboks when the sides meet in Paris on Saturday.

The Boks broke French hearts when they edged the host nation by a single point at the Stade de France, and the teams have not met since.

Arlettaz told Rugbyrama that even two years later, the pain has not faded.

“There was sadness, frustration, and maybe a sense of injustice,” he said. “It’s still a scar for everyone, myself included, but we have to build on it to become better. But, yes, the desire to beat them is very strong – absolutely.”

Despite several injuries to key players during the demanding Top 14 season, Arlettaz believes France’s depth will allow them to compete with the world champions.

“We believe we can match them physically,” he said. “We don’t have the same preparation time, but that only fuels our hunger.

“The Springboks kick between 15 and 17 high balls per match – that’s more than scrums, and about the same as line-outs. We can’t ignore that. We’ve spent real time on it.”

Meanwhile, head coach Fabien Galthié has taken extra precautions ahead of the Test, holding closed training sessions at Marcoussis amid fears of South African spies.

Galthié has significantly reduced media access to training, limiting reporters to the first 15 minutes rather than the usual full session. The move comes amid concern that the nearby South Africa Under-20 squad could inadvertently provide information to Rassie Erasmus and his staff.

With Les Bleus also preparing to face the young Boks this week, Galthié and his team are taking no chances in keeping tactical details firmly under wraps.