Champions Cup
Toulouse collapses after 21-0 halftime lead against Glasgow
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Stade Toulousain suffered a harsh 28-21 defeat to Glasgow Warriors in the Champions Cup on Saturday, despite total dominance in the first half (21-0). Antoine Dupont, starting for the first time in eleven months, shone by scoring a try and assisting two others. The second half saw the Scots turn the game around under driving rain and strong winds.
Leinster faces Toulon on Saturday, 2 May, and Bordeaux Bégles hosts Bath on Sunday, 3 May, in Champions Cup semifinals. South African teams Bulls, Stormers and Lions could benefit in URC standings. European clubs' divided focus on multiple tournaments may create opportunities for local franchises.
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South African rugby franchises Bulls and Stormers have announced that Springbok locks Ruan Nortjé and Salmaan Moerat will join overseas clubs before the 2026/27 season, shortly after losses in the Champions Cup Round of 16. Nortjé moves to Kubota Spears in Japan, while Moerat joins La Rochelle in France.
The Stormers remain unbeaten and are poised to host playoffs in both the Champions Cup and United Rugby Championship, setting a high standard for South African teams. In contrast, the Bulls and Sharks face mounting pressure after recent losses, risking early exits from both tournaments. With key matches ahead, their coaches prioritize qualification amid challenging schedules.
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The Northampton Saints secured a dominant victory over the Blue Bulls in the opening match of the European Rugby Champions Cup. The home team triumphed 50-5 at Franklin’s Gardens in England. The Blue Bulls managed only one early try in the encounter.