If Ireland weren't already facing a major test against France, their task has been all the more difficult by the absence of a number of key players. Johnny Sexton, Conor Murray, James Ryan, and Peter O'Mahony are all unavailable.
On the other hand, the French will be able to call on perhaps the world's most in-form player. Antoine Dupont was in incredible form during his nation's opening weekend victory over Italy, producing a number of moments of magic.
The 24-year old is an incredible player, one Ireland will have to limit the impact of if they are to get a win on Sunday.
Speaking ahead of the match in Dublin, Ireland winger James Lowe admitted Andy Farrell's side would be attempting to limit Dupont's influence on proceedings.
Dupont is a common theme into everything that goes well with this French side. He's an amazing player. To me, the world's best player at the moment.
I saw that [New Zealand scrum-half] Aaron Smith actually just came out and said openly he's watching Dupont, what's he's done for Toulouse and this French side.
He's the key man and someone that we have to try to limit his damage. He's the one we're going for.
Ireland will need to secure a positive result in this game to have any chance of winning this year's Six Nations, but the French will certainly fancy their chances of ending their ten-year winless run in Dublin.
SEE ALSO: Matt Williams Blames Defeat To Scotland On English Arrogance
