The victory ensures a winner-takes-all showdown against England in Bordeaux next weekend, though an injury to star lock Siobhan Soqeta will temper French celebrations.
While the final scoreline reflected France's clinical edge, the Edinburgh crowd was treated to a high-scoring affair in which Scotland showed immense character to secure their own four-try bonus point against the tournament’s meanest defence.
Les Bleues strike early (again)
Just as they had in the first period, France struck almost immediately after the restart. In the 42nd minute, a sequence of slick offloads involving Léa Murie tore open the Scottish left flank, allowing Pauline Barrat to swallow-dive over the line.
The French power game, bolstered by a fresh front row off the bench, began to squeeze the life out of the Scottish set-piece. Siobhan "Bonnie" Soqeta capped a dream full debut by burrowing over for her second try of the match in the 57th minute, though her afternoon ended prematurely shortly after as she left the field with a concerning arm injury.
The relentless pressure continued as Alexandra Chambon and a sensational solo effort from Léa Murie pushed France past the 50-point mark. Every time Scotland threatened to build momentum, the French response was instantaneous and devastating.
Despite the mounting scoreboard, Scotland’s resolve never wavered. Backed by a vocal home support, the hosts pushed for the bonus point that their attacking intent deserved. In the 68th minute, Emily Coubrough spun out of a tackle to score Scotland’s third, rewarding a period of sustained pressure sparked by a sharp Rhona Lloyd interception.
The biggest roar of the afternoon was reserved for the 79th minute. After Meryl Smith courageously opted for the corner over a shot at goal, 21-year-old debutant hooker Aicha Sutcliffe positioned herself perfectly at the tail of a driving maul to crash over. It was a landmark moment for the youngster and a vital bonus point for Sione Fukofuka’s side.
French flourish
True to the pattern of the match, France had the final say. In the dying seconds, Ambre Mwayembe powered over from close range, with Lina Queyroi’s conversion bouncing in off the upright to bring the curtain down on an 11-try French performance.
France now head home to face the Red Roses in a gargantuan Grand Slam decider. Scotland, meanwhile, will take heart from their attacking output - becoming the first team this year to put four tries past the French - as they look to finish their campaign on a high away to Ireland.
Final Score: Scotland 28 - 69 France
Scotland - Tries: Philipps (16', 35'), Coubrough (68'), Sutcliffe (79') Cons: Nelson (17', 36', 69', 80')
France - Tries: M. Feleu (1'), Arbez (19'), Soqeta (27', 57'), Champon (31', 40'), Barrat (42'), Chambon (61'), Murie (63'), Deshaye (71'), Mwayembe (81') Cons: Arbez (20', 28', 32'), Queyroi (61', 71', 81')
Guinness Player of the Match: Carla Arbez (France)