Rating the Hopes of Champions Cup Contenders
Despite the disappointment of Ulster narrowly missing out on a place in the European Rugby Champions Cup quarter-finals, there are still plenty of reasons for the neutral spectator to enjoy the knockout rounds. The competition is stuffed full of top teams and there are plenty of sub-plots taking place off the pitch.
Both Leinster and Munster have made it through to the quarter-finals and could possibly make it an all-Ireland affair in the Final at the San Mamés Stadium, Bilbao on 12th May. France bring four teams to the knockout stages, including first-timers La Rochelle. There is also the prospect of seeing English side Saracens aim to match Toulon’s hat-trick of successive Champions Cup wins.
Below is a look at the chances of all eight teams, with an added prediction for their quarter-final match ups. The latest odds are provided by Paddy Power. If you want some extra value in your bet, try Free Bets UK for a free punt on the action.
Leinster: Odds 17/10. Quarter Final Opponent: Saracens, 1st April (Aviva Stadium)
Leinster are undoubtedly the form team in European club rugby, setting a record with 27 points in the pool stages. They have huge chance of getting a record-equalling fourth Champions Cup trophy this year.
Quarter-Final Prediction: Leinster, but by a fine margin.
(This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND)
Clermont: Odds 4/1. Quarter Final Opponent: Racing 92, 1st April (Stade Marcel-Michelin)
Runners-up an agonising three times in the last five years in this tournament, many will think that Clermont could finally become deserved Champions Cup winners. A deep and talented squad will help them cope with any injuries. Odds should perhaps be a little bit lower.
Quarter-Final Prediction: Clermont
Saracens: Odds 9/2. Quarter Final Opponent: Leinster, 1st April (Aviva Stadium)
It is a measure of Saracen’s success over recent years that they are ranked as third-favourites by bookmakers despite being 8th seeds and coming up against a record-breaking Leinster side. Injury concerns over players like Billy Vunipola could cost them.
Munster: Odds 8/1. Quarter Final Opponent: Toulon, 31st March (Thomond Park)
There are signs that this Munster side is becoming capable of matching the exploits of the all-conquering heroes of a decade ago. They will be highly-fancied to overcome a Toulon side who are not just as potent as in the past.
Quarter-Final Prediction: Munster
(This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA)
La Rochelle: Odds 17/2. Quarter Final Opponent: Scarlets, 30th March (Parc y Scarlets)
Scarlets v La Rochelle is arguably the toughest to call of the quarter-finals. La Rochelle have it in them to do well in this tournament, despite facing a really tricky tie in Wales.
Quarter-Final Prediction: La Rochelle
Scarlets: Odds 11/1. Quarter Final Opponent: La Rochelle, 30th March (Parc y Scarlets)
Despite showing lots of quality when topping Pool 5, Scarlets will have their work cut out for them against La Rochelle. They have home advantage, but they may still come up short.
Toulon: Odds 16/1: Quarter Final Opponent: Munster, 31st March (Thomond Park)
It seems strange to see Toulon as outsiders given their record in recent years. However, they might struggle to score against a Munster side who boast the best defence in European club rugby.
Racing 92: Odds 22/1: Quarter Final Opponent: Munster, 1st April (Stade Marcel-Michelin)
It will be the biggest shock of the tournament if Racing can get through to the semi-finals ahead of Clermont. The odds are 7/2 for that to happen. They should be bigger.
