Toulouse Rugby marched into the quarter-finals of the Investec Champions Cup with a commanding 38-15 victory over Sale Sharks on April 6, 2025, at the Stadium Municipal de Toulouse. The match, which was delayed by an extraordinary incident involving a parachutist, showcased Toulouse's resilience and depth, even as they navigated the challenges posed by a spirited Sale side.
In front of a packed crowd, Toulouse aimed to secure their fifth consecutive title in this prestigious tournament, entering the match as the defending champions. Despite the absence of their star player, Antoine Dupont, who is sidelined with an ACL injury, Toulouse proved their mettle against a determined Sale team that had recently secured their playoff spot with a decisive win over RC Toulon.
The match kicked off at 10 a.m. ET, but not before a 40-minute delay caused by a parachutist, Yannick Trouille, who became entangled in the stadium's roof. Fortunately, the Toulouse Fire Brigade was able to safely rescue him, ensuring the match could proceed amidst the excitement and anticipation of the fans.
As the game began, Toulouse quickly asserted their dominance, with Jack Willis scoring the opening try just two minutes in. The early momentum seemed to favor the hosts, but Sale responded fiercely, with Luke James and Jonny Hill both crossing the line, keeping the contest tight at 15-15 by halftime.
However, the second half saw Toulouse ramp up the pressure, with François Cros scoring shortly after the break to give his team the lead once more. Romain Ntamack's brilliant 50:22 kick set up Julien Marchand for another try, extending the lead to 22-15. Toulouse's depth and bench strength became evident as they continued to pile on the points, with Ange Capuozzo and Guillaume Cramont adding to the tally.
Capuozzo's try, a stunning solo effort where he sliced through the Sale defense, was a highlight of the match. Unfortunately, the Italian winger injured his right leg during the score and had to be stretchered off, casting a shadow over his team's victory. The Toulouse medical staff will conduct scans to assess the severity of his injury.
Despite the loss of Capuozzo, Toulouse's bench made a significant impact, showcasing the depth of talent available to head coach Ugo Mola. Players like Clement Verge and Anthony Jelonch stepped up, contributing to the team's overall performance. The match demonstrated the importance of tactical kicking and the ability to capitalize on key moments, which Toulouse executed with precision.
Sale Sharks, under the guidance of director of rugby Alex Sanderson, put forth a valiant effort, particularly in the first half. However, they struggled to maintain their momentum as the match wore on. The loss of Tom Curry to a wrist injury in the first half was a significant blow, as he had been pivotal in their early success. Sanderson praised his team's grit but acknowledged that Toulouse's experience and depth ultimately prevailed.
As the final whistle blew, Toulouse celebrated their victory, but the focus quickly shifted to their upcoming quarter-final clash against RC Toulon on April 13, 2025. The match promises to be a fierce encounter, with both teams boasting passionate fan bases and a long-standing rivalry.
In the aftermath of the match, the player ratings reflected the standout performances. Jack Willis was named player of the match for his tireless work both in attack and defense. His ability to disrupt Sale's play and score early set the tone for Toulouse's success. Other notable performances included François Cros, who was a force at the breakdown, and Julien Marchand, whose try was crucial in shifting the game's momentum.
In summary, Toulouse's victory over Sale Sharks not only secured their place in the quarter-finals but also reaffirmed their status as favorites to retain the Investec Champions Cup title. As they prepare for their next challenge, the team will be focused on overcoming injuries and maintaining their winning form.
