RWC2025 | France co-head coach David Ortiz and captain Marine Ménager react to their team's Rugby World Cup semi-final defeat
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France co-head coach David Ortiz and captain Marine Ménager react to their team's Rugby World Cup semi-final defeat by England at Ashton Gate Stadium on Saturday.
David Ortiz, co-head coach
On pushing England so close:
“We knew we could have a big fight against England, we knew we could have a big arm wrestle against them. In the end they were very strong.
"I want to give credit to England. I want to wish them all the best for the final. In the end when they pushed a little bit harder and when we let go a little bit, that’s what made the difference.”
On losing a ninth successive RWC semi-final:
“Yes, it is true, we lost again but, again, I think we did really well today. We want to bounce back straight after this message. There is still a bronze medal to go and get and we are going to focus on that next weekend.”
Marine Ménager, captain
On the difference between the two teams:
“They played very hard. Every opportunity they had, they scored tries, so it’s very hard to play against them. Congratulations for them, to reach the final.”
On retiring after next Saturday’s bronze-medal match:
“I love this jersey, I love that team. I want to take every little moment, even today, to take the most out of this jersey, with the team and with the girls.”
