France surge again, Ireland steady themselves, Scotland stun England – and Wales look in real trouble.
Round two of the Six Nations didn’t just clarify the early picture – it sharpened it. France backed up their opening statement with another commanding win, Ireland responded with their first victory of the campaign, and Scotland delivered the shock of the weekend by dismantling England.
Two rounds in, and one truth is emerging: this championship is France’s to lose.
France – Ruthless and relentless
France dominate again. For the second week running, Fabien Galthie’s side looked a level above as they thrashed Wales 54-12 on Sunday.
Their latest victory was built on the same foundations as round one: physical dominance, control at the breakdown, and intelligent territorial management. Where others are still searching for rhythm, France look fully formed. Their ability to strangle territory, absorb pressure, and then strike clinically sets them apart.
Who starred
- The French forward pack, dictating tempo.
- The half-backs controlling territory and decision-making.
- Defensive leaders shutting down opposition momentum.
France are not just winning – they are imposing themselves. The title conversation currently runs through Paris.
Ireland – Response delivered
After their round-one wobble, Ireland needed a reaction and they got it with a hard-fought 20-13 over Italy.
There was greater urgency at the breakdown, sharper attacking lines, and improved decision-making in key moments. It wasn’t flawless, but it was composed. Ireland rediscovered structure and belief, ensuring their championship didn’t spiral before it began.
Positives
- Improved ball speed.
- Greater defensive intensity.
- Calm second-half management.
Ireland are back in the mix – but they still feel a step behind France’s current level.
Scotland – Statement of their own
If France were ruthless, Scotland were electric with 31-20 win over Auld Enemy England.
Scotland didn’t just beat England – they dismantled them. Pace out wide, aggression at the ruck, and clinical finishing turned the contest one-sided far earlier than expected.
England, so composed in round one, were overwhelmed. Defensive shape faltered, discipline slipped, and tactical control vanished under Scottish pressure.
Who stood out
- Scotland’s backline for tempo and invention.
- Their back row for relentless breakdown work.
- Clinical finishing when chances appeared.
This was Scotland at their sharpest – and England at their most exposed.
Wales – Alarm bells ringing
Two rounds in, Wales look in real difficulty.
Struggling for cohesion, short on confidence, and unable to impose themselves physically, Wales are drifting early. The attack lacks fluency, the defence looks fragile, and belief seems thin.
If improvements don’t come quickly, this could become a long campaign.
Stars of Round Two
- France’s pack and tactical spine.
- Scotland’s attacking unit.
- Ireland’s leaders stepping up under pressure.
Who disappointed
- England’s defensive organisation.
- Wales’ lack of direction and intensity.
What’s next?
Round Three fixtures
- France vs Italy – A fascinating test. Italy’s belief will be challenged against the tournament leaders.
- England vs Ireland – Huge pressure on England after being dismantled; Ireland will sense opportunity.
- Scotland vs Wales – Scotland will look to build momentum, while Wales are desperate to stop the slide.
Momentum is everything in the Six Nations, and right now France have it in abundance.
The bigger picture
After two rounds, the shape of the championship is clearer.
France look balanced, confident, and ruthless. Ireland have stabilised but still need to find another gear. Scotland have injected themselves into the conversation with authority. England have questions to answer. Wales look vulnerable. Italy have plenty to build upon.
It is still early – but it increasingly feels like this title is France’s to lose.
