France ended a five-match losing streak against South Africa with a 21-19 victory at Stade de France, according to “Yahoo Sports”.
The win improves France’s standing in the Nations Championship and complicates the path for the world champions.
France utilized three first-half tries from Aaron Grandidier-Nkanang, Theo Attissogbe and Louis Bielle-Biarrey to build momentum.
South Africa responded with scores from Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Cobus Reinach and Malcolm Marx, but a missed conversion by Manie Libbok kept the hosts ahead.
The match was marked by physical play, including a 20-minute red card issued to South Africa number eight Jasper Wiese for a shoulder charge.
The intensity of the game was compared to the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-final, as noted in reports from “BBC Sport”.
France captain Antoine Dupont was named player of the match after delivering a crucial defensive effort in the final moments.
Dupont, who filled in at the number 10 position due to injuries, helped secure the win after Bielle-Biarrey forced a loose ball.
The result leaves France six points clear at the top of the northern hemisphere standings ahead of their match against Argentina.
South Africa, meanwhile, will face Ireland in Dublin next Saturday while looking for assistance from England to regain their position.
The “BBC live coverage” highlighted the chaotic nature of the final minutes as France held on despite a late yellow card for replacement prop Regis Montagne.
The victory serves as a significant blow to Ireland and England, both of which remain in competition with France for a spot in the Nations Championship final.
The inaugural final is scheduled to take place at Allianz Stadium on Sunday, 29 November, according to the “Nations Championship standings”.