Damian Willems Secures France Rugby Debut with Two Tries
Damian Willems, the winger for Section Paloise, scored two tries on his international debut for the France national rugby team during their match against Uruguay on November 9, 2024. According to la Fédération Française de Rugby (FFR), Willems’ performance helped France secure a dominant victory as part of their autumn international series.
Willems’ Impact on the French National Team
Willems entered the match as a replacement, quickly influencing the game’s momentum. His ability to finish scoring opportunities provided a boost to the French backline. Per reports from L’Équipe, the Section Paloise player utilized his pace and positioning to cross the try line twice, validating the selection choices made by the coaching staff for this test match.
The debut is particularly significant given the competitive nature of the French winger position. Willems’ ability to convert his limited minutes into a brace of tries puts him in a strong position for future selections as France prepares for upcoming Six Nations competitions.
Section Paloise and the Pipeline to Les Bleus
Willems’ call-up reflects the ongoing success of Section Paloise in developing top-tier talent. The Pau-based club has increasingly become a springboard for players to reach the national squad. Willems’ transition from club standout to international scorer demonstrates the high level of competition within the Top 14 league, which serves as the primary feeder for the French national team.
Match Context and Performance Data
The encounter against Uruguay served as a platform for France to test squad depth. While the starting XV provided the initial foundation, the second-half surge—led by players like Willems—highlighted the depth of the French roster. According to match statistics provided by the World Rugby official records, France’s offensive efficiency in the second half was a deciding factor in the final scoreline.
Player Profile: Damian Willems
- Position: Winger
- Club: Section Paloise
- Key Achievement: Two tries on international debut (Nov 9, 2024)
- Playing Style: High-speed finishing and aggressive line-running
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Damian Willems make his debut for France?
Damian Willems debuted on November 9, 2024, in a match against Uruguay.
Which club does Damian Willems play for?
He plays for Section Paloise in the French Top 14.
How many tries did he score in his first game?
He scored two tries during his first international appearance.
France will continue to rotate its squad through the remainder of the autumn window to finalize the roster for the 2025 Six Nations Championship. Willems’ clinical finishing makes him a viable option for the coaching staff moving forward.