Another blockbuster Pool Round is in the offing this weekend as all 18 clubs will be looking to head into the Christmas break with the wind in their sails.
Montpellier Hérault Rugby and Zebre Parma ignite the weekend on Friday night at Stade Sétoo Stadium, both flying high after bonus-point wins.
On Saturday, Benetton Rugby and USAP chase back-to-back victories.
Amongst the key clashes, Toyota Cheetahs head to Amsterdam to welcome high-flyers Stade Français Paris on Saturday. The French side has impressed in both the EPCR Challenge Cup and TOP 14 so far this term, but a trip to the Netherlands could prove lethal. The Cheetahs are looking to topple the 2017 winners and right the wrongs of their outing in Exeter last weekend.
Ospreys roll in buzzing after their stunning 24–21 comeback over Connacht Rugby as they head to newcomers US Montauban.
Newcastle Red Bulls will be equally fired up at home after toppling last year’s finalists, Lyon Olympique Universitaire, as they welcome South Africa’s Lions.
Later that day, Cardiff hosts Ulster for a fascinating tie. If you were to take a look at the United Rugby Championship table, you’d be forgiven for thinking the Welsh side would be favourites. Second, compared to Ulster’s 16th, roles have been reversed so far in the EPCR Challenge Cup. Cardiff suffered a Round 1 defeat in Paris while Ulster thumped Racing 92 for 60. It’s certainly a strong statement to send before such a key match-up.
Sunday sees two heavyweights lock horns when Racing 92 host Exeter Chiefs. Three-time Champions Cup finalists Racing 92 promise to bring the heat at home when the 2020 Champions Cup winners come to town. The French side will want to forget Round 1, too, while the Chiefs are flying at the moment.
12 December 2025
22:00 Montpellier v Zebre Parma (Septeo Stadium, Montpellier)
13 December 2025
15:00 Benetton v Perpignan (Stadio Monigo)
15:00 Toyota Cheetahs v Stade Français (NRCA Stadium)
17:15 Montauban v Ospreys (Stade Sapiac)
19:30 Newcastle Red Bulls v Lions (Kingston Park
22:00 Cardiff v Ulster (Cardiff Arms Park)
22:00 Connacht v Black Lion (Dexcom Stadium)
14 December 2025
15:00 Racing 92 v Exeter Chiefs (TBD)
17:15 Dragons v Lyon (Rodney Parade)