Stade Toulousain secured a 29-17 win over Stade Français in the Top 14 Classique at Ernest-Wallon. Despite a lackluster first half, the Red and Blacks dominated the second period with standout performances from Kalvin Gourgues and Anthony Willis. The Parisians' indiscipline sealed their loss.
The match pitted Stade Toulousain against Stade Français in the 9th round of Top 14 on November 1, 2025, at Toulouse's Ernest-Wallon stadium. The Toulousains, coached by Ugo Mola, started sluggishly, fumbling their rugby and missing several chances near the opposition line. A botched clearance by Clément Vergé in their own 22 meters allowed Noah Nene to score the first try for Paris, leading 3-10 at halftime.
After the break, Toulouse raised their game. Anthony Willis, the evening's captain and last season's top Top 14 player, powered over for a try following a quick tap penalty by Paul Graou. He made 20 runs, a match record, and was perfect defensively with 12/12 tackles. Kalvin Gourgues, a 20-year-old substitute, shone with an assist to Ange Capuozzo in the 57th minute, followed by his own try on a collective move. Gourgues gained 26 meters and beat three defenders. Capuozzo then sprinted 67 meters for a pivotal try, beating two defenders and turning the game.
For the Parisians, indiscipline proved costly: 16 penalties conceded against seven for Toulouse, including yellow cards to Sekou Azagoh, Paul Gabrillagues, and Malakai Halaifonua. Despite a valiant first-half resistance and strong tackling from Romain Briatte (17), Giacomo Nicotera, and Gabrillagues (16 each), the Parisians crumbled in the second half, unable to match Toulouse's pace. This fifth home win in as many matches strengthens Toulouse's position, as Gourgues prepares for France's clash with South Africa.