This is the match that has the rugby world buzzing, tournament favorites New Zealand squaring off against host nation France. New Zealand as expected, stormed into the final out scoring their opponents an impressive 304 to 35.  Huge numbers for sure but, it must be taken into account that this was a pretty weak pool, with the two of the better teams (Italy, Scotland) playing their second team in order to rest for their second place showdown.

 France meanwhile, was upset by Argentina in the opening game, since then they managed to recover nicely to finish second in Pool D. France has home field advantage and have actually faced two quality (yeah, I know, Ireland may be debatable at this point) sides, so it certainly will give them a boost. France has also managed to upset New Zealand in the knock out stage back in 1999.

 I see this as the game that New Zealand really did not want to play, France is unpredictable, one match they can be horrible and in another they are world beaters. This unpredictability coupled with the huge amount pressure already on New Zealand to win the cup could weigh heavily in this match. A slow against the French could mean big trouble for the All Blacks.   

 France is in a similar postion pressure wise, the French fans are looking for nothing less then a victory on home turf. This was the same pressure they faced in the Argentina match, which they started poorly and lost. Argentina, while a very good team, that plays a similar stlye of rugby like the All Blacks, lack the pure talent and skill New Zealand has. If Argentina was able to disrupt the French, one would think the All Blacks will do the same. New Zealand's recent blow out wins against the French this summer must also be taken into account.

 With that said, I think the All Blacks  will be tested early but, have enough to get by the French and pull out the win going away. My prediction is bet on Black, New Zealand 31 - France 17.