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Find your frequencyBlack Ferns expect tougher France Tests as both sides improve
Sport Nation • October 14th, 2026 6:00 am
Maia Joseph | Photo: Luke Hastings/Photosport
France were a tough team to beat when the Black Ferns faced them last month, and Maia Joseph expects another stern challenge as the teams begin a three-match series in New Zealand.
The Black Ferns won 28-14 in France, but the halfback said the result masked how difficult the match was.
“I don't think the score really reflected how hard that game was. It was really tough physically and we never really felt like we never felt comfortable,” she told Sport Nation Afternoons.
“They kind of keep coming back no matter what we were doing.”
Braxton Sorensen-McGee scores for the Black Ferns v France | Photo: Inpho/Billy Stickland
France have continued to impress since, beating Canada 21-5, but Joseph said the Black Ferns have also made progress since their previous meeting.
“Post that game, they went on to play and beat Canada by three or four tries so its a really tough test.
“I think from that time we played France a month ago now, every game we've kind of improved, which is the exciting thing.
“It's going to be a really tough three weeks,” she explained.
Listen to the full interview below:
