RWC #17: Argentina tear up the script in 2007 opener

More often than not the first game of the Rugby World Cup is a ceremonial affair, giving the host nation the chance to get an early win under their belt and signalling the start of the tournament.

Granted after New Zealand romped past Italy in 1987 the next two openers were hum-dingers between the hosts and the holders, with England losing to the All Blacks in 1991 and South Africa beating Australia in 1995.

But in 1999 the opening fixture reverted to type, with Wales beating Argentina at the Millennium Stadium before Australia saw off Argentina again in Sydney in 2003.

Argentina clearly seemed like good fodder for the host team to play in their first fixture. They were drawn to do so again against France in Paris in 2007 however this time, they didn't stick to the plan.

In front of a packed and for once raucous Stade de France Bernard Laporte’s host side seemed to wilt under the weight of expectation while the Pumas thrived with the odds stacked heavily against them.

The Argentinian pack, marshalled by the brilliant Juan Martin Fernandez-Lobbe, bossed France, while behind Felipe Contemponi marshalled his back line with aplomb and was dead-eyed off the kicking tee.

Four Contemponi penalties and an Ignacio Corleto try cancelled out two David Skrela penalties in the first half and France were struggling to stay afloat.

As the second half progressed France had plenty of opportunities but lacked the composure to convert any of them. Two Aurelien Rougerie breaks were fruitless, while Skrela and replacement Michalak both missed kicks.

As the clock ticked on Laporte sent for the cavalry, but even the hulking Sebastien Chabal couldn't force the issue. France were beaten, Argentina had lit the blue touch paper.

The World Cup had been brought roaring to life, but the hosts were struggling to stay alive.