Only a second-half rally salvaged pride and prevented another humiliation for France in a 38-18 loss at home to World Cup champion New Zealand. It was France’s 11th straight loss to New Zealand, but it could have been far worse after the All Blacks scored four first-half tries seemingly at will. New Zealand routed France 62-13 in the 2015 Rugby World Cup quarterfinals. Another hammering appeared inevitable when hooker Dane Coles, winger Waisake Naholo, center Ryan Crotty and flanker Sam Cane scored tries — all converted by flyhalf Beauden Barrett— to give the All Blacks a 31-5 lead at halftime at Stade de France.
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