French winger Vincent Clerc was in record breaking mode as France beat Canada 46-19.

Photos of the key moments from the Rugby World Cup match between France and Canada at McLean Park in Napier.

Former All Black Troy Flavell has cast doubt on France’s Rugby World Cup chances.

France have opened their Rugby World Cup with a less than convincing win over Japan.

Photos from the World Cup match between France and Japan at North Harbour Stadium.

The large tribal tattoos on Raphael Lakafia's arm give you some idea of his heritage, as does his surname.

France can do it, just don't say 'dark horses', writes Ian Borthwick

Title of underdog suits them well, the nothing-to-lose attitude, writes Henri Bru

The All Blacks have created some rich rugby rivalries since 1903.

Two scores in 1987 Cup set Kirwan's credentials as a great wing

One of the country's top restaurants has been booked out for an entire month during the Rugby World Cup.

Perhaps only the French could endure so roller-coaster a ride in their rugby team's fortunes these past 12 months.

The debate rages on across France. Just 10 months before the Rugby World Cup, is the national team a lost cause?