Champions Cup Showdown: Northampton, Stormers, and Munster Face Off at Top Challenges
The upcoming weekend marks the commencement of the 2025/26 Investec Champions Cup season, a premier rugby tournament featuring elite clubs from the northern hemisphere. This year’s competition continues to evolve, especially with the inclusion of South African teams since the 2022/23 season.
The Importance of Winning Away
Success in this tournament heavily relies on the ability to win away matches during the pool stages. In the previous season, Stade Toulousain uniquely managed to win both their away games but did not top their group due to Bordeaux’s try bonus points. Notably, some clubs made it to the knockout stages without winning any away matches, with Glasgow Warriors being the sole team to progress to the quarter-finals under such circumstances.
Stormers Aim for Glory
- The Stormers achieved a remarkable comeback against Munster, scoring 21 unanswered points after trailing 21-6 at halftime.
- Johannesburg’s Thomond Park is known for its challenging atmosphere, yet the Stormers emerged victorious, making them the last unbeaten team in the United Rugby Championship (URC).
- During the current season, they have triumphed in Italy against Benetton and Zebre and also secured a win in Wales against the Scarlets.
This weekend, the Stormers will take on Aviron Bayonnais, a formidable Top 14 team yet to lose at home. The Stormers are likely to benefit from the return of several Springboks, essential for overcoming Bayonnais’s strong home record. The last team to defeat them at Stade Jean Dauger was the Bulls, who achieved this during last year’s Challenge Cup.
Munster’s Hopes on the Road
Following their loss to the Stormers, Munster looks to bounce back as they face Bath at the Recreation Ground. The Irish side, boasting a rich history in the Investec Champions Cup, must prepare for a tough challenge against Bath, led by their former head coach, Johann van Graan.
- Bath has only lost once at home last season and has continued their strong home performance this season with three consecutive wins.
- Munster has won two away games this season, including a significant victory against Leinster.
Top 14 Teams on the Rise
Section Paloise has emerged as a competitive force, securing a place in the Champions Cup and currently sitting in second place in the standings. They have been particularly effective at home, having lost only once in the Top 14 this season, earning 28 out of a possible 30 points.
This weekend, they will host Northampton Saints, who along with Bath, has showcased strong away performances, securing wins against Gloucester and Newcastle Red Bulls.
Toulouse vs. Sharks
The Sharks have struggled this season and will face a daunting challenge against Toulouse, the tournament’s most successful club. Toulouse boasts six Champions Cup titles, most recently in the 2023/24 season.
- Toulouse has been dominant at home, securing 29 out of a possible 30 points this season at Stade Ernest Wallon.
- Despite their current struggles, the Sharks have shown potential, winning five away games last season.
The Investec Champions Cup continues to be a prestigious competition in international club rugby, highlighting the challenges teams face both at home and on the road.
