On Saturday, March 1, 2025, the Top 14 rugby league will see the Stade Toulousain face off against the newly-promoted RC Vannes at the historic Ernest-Wallon Stadium. This highly anticipated match, set to kick off at 16:30 local time, marks the first competitive meeting between these two teams at this venue, even though Vannes secured their Pro D2 title here last season.
Stade Toulousain, the reigning champions, is not only at the top of the standings but also boasts a strong record with 12 wins, one draw, and four losses, earning them 60 points with a positive points difference of +233. They enter this game fresh off two consecutive victories, the latest being a commanding win against Bayonne (41-6).
Meanwhile, the RC Vannes has turned its fortunes around dramatically with three consecutive wins against the Stade Français (33-28), Racing 92 (30-25), and Montpellier (37-24). This successful run has lifted them from the bottom of the standings, currently placing them 13th with 28 points, and sharing the same number of points as the 14th place Stade Français, who have a worse points difference. Despite their recent success, Vannes faces the formidable task of challenging the league leaders on their home turf.
The Toulouse squad is led by captain Jack Willis and features impressive players such as the versatile Blair Kinghorn, who has returned from international duty. The complete starting XV for the match includes: Kinghorn, Delibes, Chocobares, Ahki, Lebel, Mallia, Graou, Willis, Roumat, Castro Ferreira, Vergé, and Brennan, along with substitutes Lacombre, Neti, Arnold, Jelonch, T. Ntamack, Saito, Capuozzo, and Merkler.
On the other side, RC Vannes looks to maintain their momentum with their own strong lineup, including Surano, Camou, Taccola, Boudehent, Rayasi, Lafage, Ruru, Gorrissen as captain, Edwards, Augry, Metz, Bresler, Medrano, Béziat, and Moukoro. The bench for Vannes includes Blanchard, Berguet, Parete, Kalamafoni, Varney, Debaes, Vili, and Bourgeois.
The stakes for the match couldn't be higher for both teams. For Toulouse, victory would secure their top spot and continue their impressive form. Meanwhile, Vannes aims to defy the odds by claiming yet another win to bolster their battle against relegation.
This match is being broadcast live on Canal + Live 4, allowing fans both at the stadium and at home to witness the excitement. With Toulouse as heavy favorites, bookmakers are eager to see if the underdogs from Vannes can pull off what would be considered a massive upset.
This weekend's match is the final game before the competition enters a two-week break, making it even more significant for both teams as they look to head off for the break on the back of good performances.
During the last season, Vannes faced Toulouse during the first round of the Top 14, where they suffered a heavy defeat (18-43) at the hands of the champion team. They will surely look forward to making improvements and challenging Toulouse on their home ground.
For Vannes, this match is not just about securing points; it is also about asserting their new status as competitive players within the Top 14 league. Coach Jean-Noël Spitzer has instilled confidence within his squad, emphasizing their recent form and the potential to continue climbing the league ladder.
The stage is set for what promises to be not only the initial clash of these two teams at Ernest-Wallon but also potentially one of the more exciting matches of the Top 14 season. With the backdrop of the vibrant Toulouse crowd, it’s sure to deliver thrilling moments for both sets of supporters.
Recent insights show nearly 800 supporters from Vannes are making the trip to support their team, adding to the electric atmosphere expected at the match. The passionate showing from the visitors demonstrates their commitment and belief as they aspire toward maintaining their place within the league.
Vannes will need to bring their best game forward to contend with the skills of Toulouse, who have proven to be dominant across the league. With all eyes on this match, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how the game plays out, and whether Toulouse can continuous their dominance, or if Vannes can pull off the ultimate surprise. The countdown is on for what promises to be a memorable afternoon of rugby.