The 2025/26 Investec Champions Cup season is set to begin, emphasizing the importance of winning away games in the pool stages. The tournament, regarded as the premier club rugby competition in the northern hemisphere since its inception in 1995, faces new challenges due to the inclusion of South African teams starting from the 2022/23 season. A key focus remains: teams must secure victories on the road, particularly during the pool stages.
Challenges for Traveling Teams
In the previous season, Stade Toulousain distinguished themselves as the sole team to win both their away matches. However, they did not finish atop their group due to Bordeaux earning try bonus points in every match. While some teams advanced to the knockout stages without securing an away win, they struggled once there. Only the Glasgow Warriors managed to reach the quarter-finals under those circumstances.
Top Performers on the Road
- Stormers: They began strongly in the United Rugby Championship, overcoming Munster in a comeback victory at Thomond Park.
- Aviron Bayonnais: They have yet to lose at home in the Top 14, despite hosting strong teams like Toulon and Toulouse.
- Munster: They previously maintained an unbeaten streak but need to regain form on the road against Bath, which poses a tough challenge.
- Saints: Northampton has achieved two away wins this season and hopes to leverage their recent successes in the Champions Cup.
- Sharks: Despite a rocky start in the URC, they aim for an upset against Toulouse, who dominate at home.
Upcoming Matches to Watch
As the season kicks off, notable matches will include:
- Stormers vs. Aviron Bayonnais: The Stormers will face a formidable opponent, aiming to defeat a strong home team.
- Munster vs. Bath: A stylistic competition against their former head coach, where Munster seeks road success.
- Northampton Saints vs. Section Paloise: A historic return for Pau to the Champions Cup following a strong Top 14 season.
- Sharks vs. Toulouse: The Sharks will need to turn their season around against the Champions Cup’s most decorated team.
Key Venue Insights
Some of the most challenging venues include:
- Thomond Park, Munster: Known for its intimidating atmosphere, vital for home advantage.
- Stade Jean Dauger, Aviron Bayonnais: The last defeat at home came in June 2024, showcasing their home dominance.
- Stade Ernest Wallon, Toulouse: Holds a significant record, with Toulouse only losing one point at home this season.
As teams prepare for the Investec Champions Cup, the emphasis remains on recognizing the difficulties of away matches and strategizing accordingly for the best chances of success. Winning on the road will be pivotal for club ambitions and aspirations this season.
