Rhys Webb: Six Nations Opening Weekend - Drama, Statements Made & Reality Checks

Let’s just say reality arrived pretty quickly.

I was very confident France would win… and didn’t they do it in style.

I spoke pre-weekend about Dupont and Jalibert, but honestly, this French performance was about far more than two world-class players. The whole team were exceptional. Power, tempo, skill, accuracy, chaos but controlled chaos.

This French side play with such freedom and joy. They look like they genuinely love playing rugby together, and it shows. Any young aspiring rugby player, no matter what position you play, should be watching this team closely. How they move the ball, how they support, how they attack space, how comfortable they are under pressure — it’s pure excitement and an absolute joy to watch.

France didn’t just win.
They sent a message.

I went for a Wales win partly belief, partly heart. It’s my home country, after all. But I knew deep down it was always going to be a tough task against a very well-organised England side.

For 80 minutes, England dominated the game.
George Ford was outstanding, pulling the strings, controlling territory, tempo and decision-making. A real masterclass in game management.

From a Welsh perspective, it was disappointing. Discipline hurt us badly, and we never really got going. There was no rhythm, no sustained pressure, and very little front-foot ball. Louis Rees-Zammit showed flashes of class as we knew he would but moments alone don’t win Test matches.

One comment from the commentator really summed it up for me: after 60 minutes, 4–5 Welsh players hadn’t even touched the ball. That tells you everything about control, territory and possession.

That said…
There’s no better response opportunity than being back at home this weekend — and against France of all teams.

Italy v Scotland was played in unbelievable conditions, and I thought Italy managed the game to perfection.

Their set piece was solid.
Their kicking game was smart and disciplined.
And some of the tries they scored were simply outstanding.

I said before the tournament this feels like a Six Nations where any team can beat anyone, and this result reinforced that belief. Italy didn’t just compete — they executed. And now, the most dangerous thing in sport…

Momentum is with them.

The opening weekend delivered exactly what the Six Nations promises every year: drama, surprises, statements, and a reminder that Test rugby leaves nowhere to hide.

France look terrifying.
England look organised and ruthless.
Italy look confident and growing.
And Wales? A big response needed — but the beauty of this competition is that redemption is never far away.

And that’s why we love it.