'The match was quite even in the first 15 minutes, but the French came roaring back in the second half. They resorted to killing the ball, slowing down the game, to stop their opponents from attacking.'
RONG JINGXIANG, national captain
'The All Blacks suffered from an easy run to the quarter-finals, as they had not been challenged in the group matches.
'France stopped the All Blacks in everything they did. They were disciplined and outstanding in defence.
'However, a couple of crucial refereeing decisions didn't go New Zealand's way. One was the pass from French full-back Damien Traille to fly-half Frederic Michalak, which led to France's try in the 69th minute.
'TV replays showed that it was a forward pass, but things like that happen.'
DANNY TAUROA, Bedok Kings coach
'The turning point was when New Zealand's Luke McAlister was sin-binned. Without a full backline, the All Blacks resorted to using rucks, but they made too many mistakes. The turnovers and handling mistakes cost them dearly.
'I also feel that McAlister was too relaxed when he missed the conversion kick after New Zealand had scored a try to lead 18-13. The additional two points could have been telling.'
LOW TEO PING, Singapore Rugby Union president
'France took their chances well while the Kiwis lacked urgency to finish the game off. Complacency crept in.
'Michalak is one of the best running fly-halves in the world, and when he came on for France, he made an immediate impact.'
MARK LEE, former national player