France captain Antoine Dupont has left his team's Guinness Six Nations clash against Ireland at Aviva Stadium with an apparent knee injury following a breakdown collision.

The star scrumhalf departed in the 29th minute after sustaining the injury in a physical contest, with France holding a narrow 5-0 lead. 

Dupont looked in discomfort as he was helped off the field, dealing a significant blow to Les Bleus.

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France had taken an early advantage through an unconverted try to Louis Bielle-Biarrey, but losing its influential playmaker could shift momentum in favor of defending champion Ireland.

The match, a crucial fixture in the Six Nations title race, has been played at a relentless pace, with both sides delivering high-intensity physicality. 

Ireland, seeking a record third consecutive championship, will look to capitalize on Dupont’s absence and push for a response.

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There has been no official update yet on the severity of Dupont’s injury, with the French Rugby Federation expected to assess him further. 

The game remains in the balance, as France aims to hold onto its lead in Dublin.