In the Brexit week that’s in it, we probably should have guessed that the England-France Autumn Nations Cup final would go to extra-time. But instead of awarding France a penalty, Brace penalised the French replacement Pierre-Louis Barassi for subsequently being offside, which he was. France had hounded England to within five metres of their own line, with Gabin Villiere competing hard for a penalty on the ground. The biggest takeaway from the Autumn Nations Cup was that France, undoubtedly, look the best bet of the eight competing nations to win the 2023 World Cup - the draw for which is being made next Monday - on home soil. Even through the TV screen, the effect was palpable, not just on the home team but on the contests themselves.

Source: The Irish Times December 08, 2020 06:00 UTC