There was not much suspense on the first day of the Under-20 World Cup in South Africa. The winning teams won the six matches played this weekend with an attacking bonus. A testament to the striking power of some nations, but also the real gulf that exists between some formations. Defending champions France secured their title for the first time this Saturday. Spain was crushed with ease. The Bluevets immediately took the lead in the first period with a try in the third minute. Although the second period was not active, Sebastian Calvet's players entered the game with five points (49-12).

Berman sees the triple

New Zealand challenged Wales in the same group. Twice outnumbered during the match, the Baby Blacks took the early lead, thanks in particular to a try from Pledger, a penalty try and a brace from center Savvy Taille. Trailing 13 to 34, the Welsh scored two tries in the final ten minutes. Late gains (41-34) allowed them to earn a double bonus in defeat. New Zealand will face France on Thursday 4th July at 4:30pm.

In Pool B, spectators were treated to two one-sided matches. Ireland outclassed Italy early, allowing themselves 55 points at the head of the young Azzurri. Yet the Italians, who won the last 6 Nations U20 tournament against France, conceded eight tries, including four in the first half hour. Irish center Sam Berman even scored a hat trick in twenty minutes during this meeting (final score 55-15). In the other match in Pool B, Australia had a scare against Georgia.

Australia trembled

35 to 11 winners, however, the Baby Wallabies played 15 to 14 for most of the match after Harvey Cordoukas' red card in the 25th minute. They also led with a try by Luka Suluvashvili (14th). In the 50th minute, the score was in favor of Lelos (11-6). But the Australians finally broke through in the second half thanks to successive efforts from Leahy and Ailey. Jara McLeod and Angus Staniforth (two individual tries) then added volume to the score, allowing the Australians to take an attacking bonus.

In Pool C, local South Africans thrashed Fiji (57-7). Although a little late, the teammates of Jurenzo Juliusz, the author of the twin, remained unsurprised. In the end they scored eight tries. Anare Kaginawanua saved the honor in favor of Fiji. Finally, England beat Argentina (40-21). Winners of last 6 nations U20 tournament Their nugget could rely on Henry Pollock, author of an essay. Winger Jack Bracken scored a hat-trick.