On Saturday, April 26, 2025, the Stade Toulousain will host their fierce rivals, Castres Olympique, at the Stadium de Toulouse in what promises to be an electrifying derby match. This encounter marks the 22nd day of the Top 14 season, and both teams are eager to secure crucial points as the regular season approaches its climax.
Stade Toulousain, currently sitting at the top of the Top 14 standings, is looking to maintain their lead and secure a direct qualification for the semi-finals. After a strong performance last weekend against Stade Français, where they emerged victorious with a score of 27-21, Toulouse aims to build on their momentum. Coach Ugo Mola emphasized the importance of this match, stating, "We’re prepared to put on a great show against Castres. It’s always a special occasion when we meet them, and we want to make the most of it at our home ground."
In preparation for this derby, Toulouse has recalled several key players, including English flanker Jack Willis and fly-half Thomas Ramos. Notably, Simon Daroque will start at the scrum-half position due to the absence of stars Antoine Dupont, Ange Capuozzo, and Naoto Saito. Additionally, 18-year-old Nathan Llaveria will make his professional debut, taking a place on the bench. The team’s lineup reflects a blend of youth and experience, aiming to capitalize on their home advantage.
On the other side, Castres Olympique enters the match in fifth place, just one position away from Bayonne, who currently holds the fourth spot. Castres will be looking to close the gap and secure a playoff berth with a strong performance against their local rivals. They come into this match with confidence after a solid home victory against RC Vannes, winning 32-13. Castres’ coach has also made strategic adjustments, including the first start for Georgian Luka Matkava at fly-half.
The significance of this derby extends beyond just the points; it’s about pride and local bragging rights. The last encounter between these two teams saw Castres triumph with a narrow 28-23 victory during the fifth round of the Top 14, which adds an extra layer of motivation for Toulouse as they seek revenge.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, fans from both sides are gearing up for a thrilling afternoon of rugby. The atmosphere in Toulouse is expected to be electric, with supporters eagerly anticipating the clash. Kickoff is set for 14:30, and the match will be broadcast live on Canal + Sport.
The starting lineup for Toulouse is as follows:
15. Blair Kinghorn – 14. Dimitri Delibes, 13. Paul Costes, 12. Santiago Chocobares, 11. Matthis Lebel – 10. Thomas Ramos, 9. Simon Daroque – 8. Alexandre Roumat, 7. Anthony Jelonch (c), 6. Jack Willis – 5. Clément Vergé, 4. Efraín Elías – 3. Malachi Hawkes, 2. Peato Mauvaka, 1. Rodrigue Neti.
The substitutes include: 16. Julien Marchand, 17. Cyril Baille, 18. Thibaud Flament, 19. Mathis Castro-Ferreira, 20. Théo Ntamack, 21. Nathan Llaveria, 22. Pierre-Louis Barassi, 23. Dorian Aldegheri.
For Castres, the starting lineup features:
15. Palis – 14. Hulleu, 13. Séguret, 12. Zeghdar, 11. Raisuqe – 10. Luka Matkava, 9. Arata – 8. Peysson, 7. Delaporte, 6. Mathieu Babillot (c) – 5. Nakarawa, 4. Jedrasiak – 3. Collier, 2. Zarantonello, 1. Tichit.
The substitutes for Castres include: 16. Colonna, 17. Guérois, 18. Macurdy, 19. Cope, 20. Doubrère, 21. Dumora, 22. J. Dupont, 23. Chilachava.
As the match unfolds, fans will be on the edge of their seats, hoping for a display of skill, determination, and perhaps a few surprises. With both teams having much to play for, the stakes could not be higher. It’s the kind of match that not only counts in the standings but also resonates deeply in the hearts of the supporters.
In conclusion, as the Stade Toulousain prepares to face off against the Castres Olympique, the excitement is palpable. This derby is more than just a game; it’s a celebration of local rivalry, community spirit, and a chance for both teams to prove their mettle in front of passionate fans. Expect fireworks as these two storied clubs battle it out on the pitch!
