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.