France defeat Australia 42-26 after second-half surge

France produced a stunning second-half comeback to defeat Australia 42-26 in a Nations Championship rugby test in Brisbane on Saturday, July 11, 2026. Trailing by nine points at halftime, the visitors scored 30 unanswered points to secure their first victory over the Wallabies at Suncorp Stadium since 1972.

The win marks a strong rebound for France after a narrow 34-32 loss to New Zealand in their tournament opener last weekend. For Australia, the defeat extends a losing streak to six consecutive tests, following a heartbreaking 33-31 loss to Ireland in Sydney the previous Saturday.

A capacity crowd of 52,000 witnessed a free-flowing contest in perfect conditions. France struck first in just the third minute when lock Emmanuel Meafou, playing in his hometown, powered over from close range. Australia responded six minutes later through a clever lineout move finished by hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa. France regained the lead in the 18th minute when flyhalf Romain Ntamack's deft chip kick was gathered by winger Aaron Grandidier-Nkanang, who scored in the corner.

The momentum shifted when Meafou received a yellow card for a high tackle in the 25th minute. Australia flanker Fraser...