DUBLIN -- France replaced Ireland's hand on the Six Nations rugby trophy after a momentous 42-27 win at Aviva Stadium on Saturday. France decisively took over the lead of the championship with a bonus-point victory and can clinch its first title since 2022 in the final round at home next Saturday when it hosts Scotland.

France’s Damian Penaud, left, breaks away from Ireland’s Sam Prendergast, to score a try during the Six Nations rugby union match between Ireland and France, at Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, March 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison)

By Padraic Halpin DUBLIN (Reuters) -France moved into pole position for the Six Nations title on Saturday, withstanding an early Antoine Dupont injury to thrash Ireland 42-27 with a blistering second half that dealt a likely fatal blow to the hosts' hopes of a record third title in a row.

Scotland boss Gregor Townsend has described his side's mission in Paris on Super Saturday as the toughest challenge in world rugby at the moment. Ireland need the Scots to win to have a chance of lifting the trophy.

The French captain suffered a suspected cruciate ligament injury in a ruck in the first-half. Read more at straitstimes.com.

By Padraic Halpin DUBLIN (Reuters) -France captain Antoine Dupont suffered a potentially serious knee injury in his team's 42-27 Six Nations victory over Ireland at the Aviva Stadium, angry coach Fabien Galthie said on Saturday.

Ireland rugby greats Conor Murray, Peter O'Mahony and Cian Healy will make their last home appearance in Dublin on Saturday.

Ireland are handed their third defeat of the Under-20 Six Nations as a dominant first-half display helps France earn a 22-12 win in Cork.

France captain Antoine Dupont suffered a potentially serious knee injury in his team's Six Nations clash against Ireland at the Aviva stadium, an angry coach Fabien Galthie said on Saturday.