Lievremont: Wales tougher challenge than England

France coach Marc Lievremont has said that the upcoming game with Wales will be harder than the clash with England.

Les Bleus progressed to the semi-final of the World Cup after defeating Martin Johnson's side 19-12 in the quarter on Saturday.

"I've seen all the Welsh games and they are in great form," Lievremont told reporters yesterday. "They play great rugby - more complete than England - and the way they controlled Ireland was impressive."

France had enjoyed a largely uneventful campaign until the quarter-final, but Lievremont said his side had "grown some backbone" against England.

"History has shown that, after a tough win where anger and pride were shown, there has been a failure afterwards," he added. "I hope we manage to do it this time, though."

France face off against Wales on Saturday at Eden Park.