Rugby
Ireland vs France Preview: Odds, Tips and Prediction
Venue: Aviva Stadium Kickoff Time: 14:15 (UK Time) Ireland vs. France in the Six Nations takes place at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday, 8 March, 2025. Whilst the Six Nations action continues to capture the attention of the world – rugby fans are afforded an exciting opportunity for Six Nations rugby betting. Ireland is currently at the summit of the Six Nations table – unbeaten after three matches. They will no doubt begin to wonder about the Grand Slam but will know that the visit of the French is going to pose a different sort of threat come Saturday afternoon.
Antoine Dupont of France//Getty Images
Pre-Game Odds and Win Probability
Interestingly, France are the underdogs for this clash according to online betting markets – but therein lies a potential opportunity for value.
Home: 17/20 (1.85) – 54%
Draw: 21/1 (22.0) – 4%
Away: 1/1 (2.0) – 42%
Head-To-Head Record
Last three meetings
02/02/2024: France 17–38 Ireland
11/02/2023: Ireland 32-19 France
12/02/2022: France 30–24 Ireland
Ireland Current Form – WWWWW
The Irish have already won the Triple Crown, beating England, Scotland and Wales in the Six Nations already. Now, whilst that might have justified a call to celebrate, they are wanting to ensure they secure their third consecutive Six Nations title. A Grand Slam would be a welcome addition – but the title is what they are after.
You often get the feeling the Irish play with a bit of a chip on their shoulder. If it assists them finding an aggressive touch, so be it, but given the quality in this Irish side, they should be winning far more international trophies.
Key Players to Watch
- Caelan Doris: The big Irish number eight. He leads with distinction and has been immense for them, both when they have the ball and when they are looking to reclaim it. He did suffer a knock to his knee, but initial indicators suggest he will be back in this starting lineup.
- Josh van der Flier: When you think work rate in this Irish team, van der Flier is surely the first name that pops into your head. A phenomenal tackler and an absolute menace for opponents at the breakdown – keep an eye on him here.
- Garry Ringrose: Defensive solidity and a flair on attack underpin this new Irish team – but it also perfectly encapsulates the sort of rugby Ringrose can play. Ireland will be hopeful of another powerful showing here.
France Current Form – WLWWW
France is currently second on the Six Nations table after their dramatic defeat to England. There is no denying the French has improved a lot, their set pieces are clinical and effective. Their players are dynamic and strong. However, arguably most important would be their current identity.
They do not fear anyone and will always stand up to a challenge. An aggressive sort of nippy and gritty game seems to suit them, and rightly so. The demographic of the team, the style of play and the approach speak to a new-aged French outfit and you can bet your bottom dollar that they wont change.
Key Players to Watch
- Antoine Dupont: We could never speak about him too much – he is that good. Spending a year at Rugby Sevens seemed to just enhance his tactical flair and he is now seemingly even more confident, more creative and more dynamic than before.
- Romain Ntamack: It has been great to see him return to the starting lineup. His vision and tactical ability is second to none and when they have a player like that playing in the number ten jersey, you just know you are likely to struggle.
- Gregory Alldritt: The fact that he is such a consistent performer only endears him to French fans even more. A big and strong player at the base of the scrum, he will no doubt look for opportunities to carry the ball into contact and keep France on the front-foot.
Suggested Bets
Our suggested bets for those who wants to bet on rugby are listed below.
Ireland: They have been in excellent form of late and don’t look to currently have a weak spot. Betting on the Irish individually may not make you a millionaire, but bankers are important for our weekend festivities. 17/20 (1.95) with BetWinner
Over 42.5 Points: Neither side has been shy to score points. They each boast an incredible attacking threat and backing a high-scoring affair seems like a fair move. 17/20 (1.95) with Stake
Value Bets
France to Score First: France has a serious attacking potency. They start games on the front foot and will look to get onto the board early here. Back the visitors to open the scoring. 21/20 (2.1) with Betway
Ireland (-4.5): Ireland have been strong this season, but they havent blown anyone out of the water (yet). We are backing a strong Irish showing here. 21/20 (2.1) with 1xBet
Prediction: Ireland
The truth is it is so difficult to see past an Irish win. They have a complete rugby team. From head to toe, they can hurt you with their dynamic play, but the way in which they attack is starting to just create a gap with other big powerhouses around the world.
We are still behind the Irish though.
Ryan Liberty is an experienced sports writer whose articles have featured in some of the biggest sports publications in South Africa. With a strong understanding of all major sports and an in-depth understanding of betting, Ryan consistently delivers insightful content. He's also known for his ability to break down complex topics into engaging, reader-friendly pieces.
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