Ireland continue their pursuit of a second Six Nations title on the bounce this weekend when they play host to France at the Aviva Stadium.

It was hardly a classic performance from Joe Schmidt's men in their opening match against Italy, where they failed to break down the current wooden spoon holders until 16 minutes from time.

In the end a 26-3 victory gave the impression of a straightforward triumph for the holders, although it was not until their opponents tired in the final third until they really got a grip of the contest.

The tournament favourites have made two changes for Saturday's meeting with France, with Johnny Sexton coming in for his first appearance since November. Jamie Heaslip has also been recalled to the back row, keen to help Ireland maintain their winning start ahead of what could potentially be a tournament decider against England in two weeks' time.

Ireland edged out the Red Rose on points difference to win the showpiece tournament 12 months ago, meaning that every penalty, try and conversion really does count, so they will be looking for a solid performance on home turf to provide hope in this World Cup year.

Schmidt admitted that he found it tough viewing in that win over Italy, but it should be remembered that his side have now gone eight Test matches without losing, racking up more than 21 points in each of their last seven victories.

That is why France will have to be on top of their game in Dublin if they are to triumph, and they are also sitting on an unbeaten start thanks to last weekend's 15-8 success against Scotland.

Again, it was far from a top-class showing from Les Bleus, head coach Philippe Saint-Andre afterwards calling for a vast improvement from his side, but there were certainly some encouraging signs.

Their attacking game may have been poor on the whole, yet it was a different matter when it came to defending, where they remained resilient in large parts to restrict Scotland to that single Dougie Fife try.

As it was, that is one try more than France could muster, so while the game is sure to be tight tomorrow evening they must ensure that they make a breakthrough against Ireland if they are to have any hope of prevailing.

It was the Irish who came out on top in the last meeting between the two, winning 20-22 in Paris en route to their title success this time last year.

Ireland:

Recent form: WWWWWW

Starting lineup: Rob Kearney, Tommy Bowe, Jared Payne, Robbie Henshaw, Simon Zebo, Johnny Sexton, Conor Murray, Jack McGrath, Rory Best, Mike Ross, Devin Toner, Paul O'Connell, Peter O'Mahony, Sean O'Brien, Jamie Heaslip

France:

Recent form: WLWWLL

Starting lineup: Spedding, Huget, Bastareaud, Fofana, Thomas, Lopez, Kockott, Arous, Guirado, Slimani, Pape, Maestri, Le Roux, Dusautoir, Chouly

Sports Mole says: 22-17