France built their advantage before half-time, scoring three tries through Aaron Grandidier-Nkanang, Theo Attissogbe and Louis Bielle-Biarrey.
France have taken a major step towards the Nations Championship final after surviving a second-half comeback to defeat South Africa 21-19 in Paris on Friday night.
France built their advantage before half-time, scoring three tries through Aaron Grandidier-Nkanang, Theo Attissogbe and Louis Bielle-Biarrey.
South Africa then fought back after the break, despite Jasper Wiese receiving a red card.
The Springboks came within two points when Malcolm Marx crossed late on, but Manie Libbok missed the conversion that would have levelled the match.
Captain Antoine Dupont then secured a crucial turnover in the closing stages to protect France's narrow lead.
The result leaves France seven points clear at the top of the Northern Hemisphere standings, having played one game more than Ireland.
Andy Farrell's side must now beat Fiji and South Africa, while hoping France lose to Argentina next weekend, to have a chance of reaching the final.
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