France target second win as Wales look to bounce back

February 13, 2026
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Ultimate Rugby

France head to Cardiff with momentum after a commanding win over Ireland in round one. The defending champions were sharp in attack and solid up front, and they arrive as clear favourites.

Wales are under pressure. A heavy defeat to England extended their Six Nations losing run to 11 matches. They have also lost their last seven meetings with France and are still searching for consistency.

Key Players

Wales

Louis Rees-Zammit – Dangerous in space and strong under the high ball.
Dewi Lake – Captain and leader in the pack.
Tomos Williams – Sets the tempo and links play.

France

Antoine Dupont – Controls the game and drives standards.
Matthieu Jalibert – Main attacking organiser.
Louis Bielle-Biarrey – Clinical finisher.
Mickaël Guillard – Physical presence in the second row.

Team News

Wales reshuffle their back row, with Olly Cracknell starting at No.8. Aaron Wainwright moves to blindside and Alex Mann to openside. Joe Hawkins returns at inside centre.

France make two changes in midfield. Émilien Gailleton and Fabien Brau-Boirie replace the injured Yoram Moefana and Nicolas Depoortere. The rest of the starting XV remains unchanged.