Tokyo (AFP)

England, first nation qualified for the quarter-finals of the World Cup after their victory against Argentina (39-10) Saturday in Tokyo, turns to France, his opponent in a week for the 1st place of the hen C.

"We are just worried about France next week," coach Eddie Jones immediately said after the Englishman's triumph, the third in as many games, allowed them to turn the page in the first round of elimination. 2015 home.

"Qualification for the quarter-finals is on the cards but we want to improve every game," said Jones, whose goal, in essence, is for his team to be ready for a quarter-final against Australia and the country. from Wales.

But before that, there is France, which can also qualify Sunday in favor of a draw - at least - against Tonga. "This is our next game, so this is our most important match, we want to win every game," said the Australian coach.

- "Impressed" -

Who says he was "impressed" by the performance of the Blues in their first match against Argentina (23-21). "They played a good rugby and scored a few tries in a game unstructured early in the game.With the influence of (Fabien) Galthie on their coaching, they seem to return to their traditional game, in which their structure Destructure the field, with passes after contact and support (to the ball carrier) .We will have to work hard on the defensive next week ", summarizes the technician.

No need, therefore, for the French, to hope that Jones keeps some executives at the expense in anticipation of the quarter-finals. "No, no, no," he insisted, wanting to line up "the top 23 players." As I said, we are under construction, we want to be better (than Saturday) next week.

And what does the identity of the French opener, Romain Ntamack or Camille Lopez, matter? "No matter who plays 10 for France, it's a very dangerous team," swept the English opener George Ford, assured to have the same number on the back since Owen Farrell was repositioned in the center.

"We just have to prepare to face the best French team possible," said Ford, who also fears the "french flair" and the "offloads" that go with it.

But if England, winner without really impressing Argentine quickly reduced to 14, is wary of France, the Blues would do well to be wary too. "We have not played at our best yet," agrees Jones. "It's a good thing because it's the principle of this competition." Subdued: keep under the pedal.

© 2019 AFP