Les Bleus looking to keep Grand Slam dream alive – Wales v France talking points

France face the next challenge in their bid for a first Six Nations title and Grand Slam since 2010 when they tackle Wales on Friday.

Les Bleus head to Cardiff in confident mood after beating Ireland, Scotland and Italy, and opening up a three-point gap as tournament leaders.

Here, the PA news agency looks at some of the key talking points ahead of an eagerly-awaited Principality Stadium encounter.

France’s 12-year wait for Six Nations silverware will end if they beat Wales and then topple England in Paris next week. Not since the days of players like Clement Poitrenaud, Yannick Jauzion, Thierry Dusautoir and Imanol Harinordoquy have they conquered Europe, but odds are short on them achieving it this time around. Fabien Galthie’s team, mixing vibrant attack with fierce defence and immense physical power up-front, are unbeaten in six Tests this season. If they can cope with the expectation and pressure that now surrounds them, then Six Nations success is surely just around the corner.

Wales’ hopes of a successful Six Nations title defence were effectively ended by a 23-19 defeat against England at Twickenham last time out. A strong second-half performance, though, saw them score three tries after trailing by 17 points, and they have toppled France in four of the last five Six Nations home fixtures, while also winning eight from 12 across all competitions since Les Bleus beat them in the 2011 World Cup semi-finals. Wales field 11 of the match-day 23 on Friday that were involved in an agonising Grand Slam-ending loss to Les Bleus last season, providing added motivation.

Wales’ former defence coach is a serial winner, whether as a rugby league playing great or in accomplished track-suited roles with Wasps, Wales and France.