Key head to head battles | France vs Ireland

Ireland travel to Stade de France on Thursday for the opening match of the 2026 Six Nations. Last year in March, France got the better of the Irish at home and beat them 27-42.

Ahead of Thursday's match, lets take a look at 5 key head to heads

Julien Marchand vs Dan Sheehan

Can the Irish hooker take control of their own scrums? It will be the Marchand power vs the Sheehan speed.

Francois Cros vs Cian Prendergast

It is 31 year old vs 25 year old. Can Prendergast get the upperhand over the French forward at the breakdowns.

Antoine Dupont vs Jamison Gibson-Park

Magic vs Precision. Both of these men will be a danger on Thursday evening.

Louis Bielle-Biarrey vs Tommy O'Brien

Both have speed to burn. But who will have the most space in front of them?

Thomas Ramos vs Jamie Osborn

Mr 100% off the kicking tee vs hot knife through butter. 

Can Ireland spoil the French party or will the home supporters chant "Allez les Bleus" all the way home?