Stade Toulousain offered a real show of strength by inflicting a scathing defeat on the Leicester Tigers, with a clear score of 80-12 on the last day of the group stage of the Investec Champions Cup. This performance sparked numerous reactions in the foreign press, praising the excellence of the French club.
TOP 14. Lacombre, Capuozzo… The hybrid composition of Stade Toulousain for the reception of a reinvigorated Montpellier
Toulouse: the greatest Rugby club of all time?
The Telegraph did not mince his words when declaring that “Toulouse is the greatest club that rugby has ever seen”. A strong statement which underlines the domination of the Red and Black on the European scene. “When their stars shine as they did on Sunday, with the drums raucous and the crowds whistling, watching Toulouse at home brings rugby closer to a religious experience – and that must be savoured.” The English newspaper does not go easy on comparisons.
Even though Bordeaux had fun with the Sharks a week after punishing the Chiefs at home, the Toulouse display shocked more than one observer. “We should marvel at the masters of their craft, unique talents who play so harmoniously together that they redefine the definition of symbiosis“.
A rugby lesson for the Tigers
On the side of The Guardianthe analysis is unequivocal: English clubs, including Leicester, face a major challenge in the Champions Cup, especially after such a rout. The article highlights that the French and Irish teams continue to dominate the competition, leaving the English teams with a mountain to climb. « Scary », this is how former England captain Chris Robshaw for his part described the match for Mola's men.
-The Leicester Tigers official website acknowledges Toulouse's superiority, admitting the home side were simply too strong that day. “Although Michael Chieka has improved Leicester Tigers this season, they have failed to match Toulouse's pace, power and efficiency.” And Planet Rugby added: “Motivated in fury at not having obtained a bonus point last weekend in Durban, Toulouse attacked the Tigres, unfortunate victims of being in the wrong place at the right time“. Above all, the two teams were clearly not at the same level of development.
French rugby in a state of grace
“They played divine rugby, scoring at a point per minute” after a first act close to perfection. All, under the leadership of Antoine Dupont who “took on Messi's role as conductor while Leicester was torn to pieces”, writes the DailyMail. Behind him , Willis, Flament and even Capuozzo shone. The English media also named the Italian as man of the match.
Finally, the website of the South African rugby federation (SA Rugby) highlights French mastery, in particular that of Toulouse, as a model to follow for South African teams. The article underlines that the performances of French clubs, including that of Toulouse, are of an exceptional level, offering a real lesson in rugby.
80 points! Where does Toulouse's performance stand in the European Cup record books?In short, this resounding victory for Stade Toulousain against Leicester not only left its mark, but also reinforced their status as a giant of European rugby, arousing admiration and respect throughout the world. However, as impressive as it is, it does not guarantee that the Red and Black will manage to retain their title. They will indeed have to battle away to reach the final. And could well find UBB or Leinster on their way. However, it will be necessary to put out a very high level performance to bring down this Toulouse.
