Loose forward François Cros of the Springboks said France lost the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-final to South Africa before the match began. Cros stated that the Springboks had an advantage in key areas, despite France being equally skilled or even superior. He highlighted the difficulty of leaving Toulouse, the club he had long been associated with, for the national team.
Cros emphasized that the Springboks’ tactical approach and preparation gave them an edge. He noted that France was not at fault but was simply outmatched in specific aspects of the game. The decision to move from Toulouse was a tough one, as it involved personal and professional sacrifices.
This match marked a significant moment in the 2023 Rugby World Cup, with France falling to the Springboks in a quarter-final clash. The loss was a setback for France, which had been a strong contender throughout the tournament. Cros’ comments reflect the challenges faced by French rugby in maintaining its competitive edge against top-tier teams.
