Stade Toulousain defeated Stade Français 13-9 in the Classique at Jean-Bouin, in a tough match characterized by high engagement from both sides. International center Pierre-Louis Barassi praised his team's mindset in the post-match press conference. This win ends the Parisians' unbeaten streak at home.
Stade Toulousain edged Stade Français 13-9 in the 17th round of Top 14, a Classique played under winter rain at Stade Jean-Bouin. The physically demanding match saw Toulouse rely on a strong set-piece and exemplary forward solidarity to secure a narrow win.
In the post-match press conference, international center Pierre-Louis Barassi gave a positive assessment. “It was a match with a lot of commitment, it was tough. We're happy and proud, even if it was close. I think we put the right ingredients in throughout the game to win tonight,” he said. He highlighted the importance of territorial occupation in such weather: “It was mainly about kicking for territory, because we know very well that in this kind of winter weather, with a bit of rain, possession through kicks is crucial.”
Early in the game, Toulouse faced intense pressure from Paris, pinned back in their own half. At halftime, the score was 6-3 to Stade Français. In the second half, with the wind at their backs, the Red and Blacks held the ball better and implemented their game plan, turning the match around.
Barassi expressed joy at the performance, particularly against a vengeful Parisian side following a 44-7 defeat to Montpellier two weeks prior. “Stade Français was still unbeaten at home. [...] We're savoring it. We know we put in a great performance tonight and it will help us going forward.” He also attributed Toulouse's success during international doublons periods to squad depth: “We've been relying on great squad depth for several seasons. [...] When everyone does their job, we can only get good results.”
This win, achieved amid international call-ups, bolsters Toulouse's momentum in the championship.
