| Venue: Stade de France, Paris Date:Saturday, 12 Februar Kick-off:16:45 GMT |
| Coverage: Live commentary on BBC Radio Ulster or BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra. Live audio and text commentary is available on the BBC Sport website. |
Johnny Sexton, the captain of Ireland, believes that the current international setup is “enjoyable” because it’s winning.
Sexton, 36 led Ireland to a bonus points victory over Wales in Saturday’s Six Nations opener. It was a great way to kick off their campaign.
It sets up a fascinating game in Paris between France and Italy, who hammered Italy last Sunday.
Sexton stated, “Any team with which I have been involved has won I love.”
Sexton’s glittering career has included three Six Nations titles, one Grand Slam and four European Cups for Ireland. In addition, six league titles have been won through various forms of United Rugby Championship.
“I love playing for Ireland in any system, but you look back and you see that the best system is where you win. This is the number 10 in an Ireland team on a nine-game winning streak.
“That’s why you also get moments after games. Some of the most memorable moments we have had in games are here for us forever.
“Even Garry’s (Ringrose), try (against Wales), was amazing. It’s crazy in the stadium, we love it as an team, it is a bonus-point attempt at Aviva Stadium. You love winning and that’s the best thing.
France coach Galthie has an ‘huge name’
France was the favourite to win this year’s tournament, while Ireland was heavily favored due to their recent performances and victories.
The French came close to winning last year’s Six Nations, but have since made a significant turnaround under the guidance of Shaun Edwards and Fabien Galthie, a highly-rated coach.
“I believe it is linked to Shaun Edwards, and the coaches they have. I think this will play a major role.
“Coaches are the key to a team turning a corner, and I believe they do. They need great players, but they can’t be successful without good coaches.
Galthie is a well-respected name. Joe Schmidt was a great person and spoke to us about Fabien Galthie’s abilities when he visited. You know you have a great one when someone like Joe talks up Galthie.
Sexton played a major role in several memorable Ireland wins in Paris. Sexton is most famous for his late drop-goal that secured victory in 2018. He also spent time with Racing 92 in club rugby.
“Yeah it [playing games in France]It played an important part. Even the big wins of 2014, 2018 and 2018, there were hard lessons. I still remember the incredible atmosphere it was to be a youngster on the bench in 2010.
“It’s an amazing place to go in international Rugby and it’s Paris every time that I go back there, it’s very familiar. It brings back great memories of my time with Racing and also with Ireland.
