Sunday brings the curtain down on the Champions Cup Round of 16 with two blockbuster fixtures — and both see French clubs in pole position to advance.
Bordeaux vs Ulster – Goliaths vs Grit
Bordeaux lit up the pool stages with some of the most electric rugby seen this season. Demolitions of the Sharks and Exeter showcased their firepower, and they already have a win over Ulster under their belts from earlier in the tournament.
Ulster scraped through with just one pool win but arrive in France off the back of two thrilling URC victories over the Dragons and Stormers. If they can replicate that intensity, they might make it interesting — but Bordeaux at home are a different beast.
Toulouse vs Sale Sharks – French Firepower Meets English Grit
Toulouse, the aristocrats of French rugby, have looked every bit the juggernaut. They posted massive wins over Leicester and Exeter in the pool phase and come into this tie fresh from dismantling Pau 55-10 in the Top 14.
Sale have some belief after recent wins over Newcastle and Northampton, but the scale of the task here is monumental. Toulouse at home, in knockout rugby, are a nightmare assignment.