Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Jon Cardinelli
Published on 2024-04-03 10:48:37
Opportunity is knocking for South Africa’s five franchises as they gear up to compete in the European club playoffs over the next two weeks. This presents a chance for the local clubs to showcase their quality and potentially make history by advancing to the Champions Cup and Challenge Cup semifinals for the first time ever.
However, South Africa’s relatively short history in European competitions highlights the challenges that lie ahead. Despite all five teams qualifying for the European playoffs, they faced tough competition in the round of 16 and quarterfinals, with all five falling short. The coaches attributed this to the players’ lack of experience in European conditions and the logistical challenges of traveling between South Africa and the northern hemisphere.
Following their initial setbacks, the franchises like the Bulls and Sharks have made efforts to strengthen their squads and manage their resources over a 10-month season with the aim of peaking during crucial matches. Despite these efforts, expectations remain tempered for South African teams in Europe, with the possibility of only one franchise making it to the Champions Cup semifinals.
The top-seeded Sharks are eyeing a potential victory in the Challenge Cup, but this alone may not be a true indicator of progress, especially since they were relegated to the second-tier tournament after the 2023 URC season. The Bulls, on the other hand, have shown growth in their style and depth throughout the season, positioning them well to progress in the URC and Champions Cup.
The Bulls’ director of rugby, Jake White, sees losses like the recent one to Leinster as part of the learning process for his team. With upcoming matchups against Lyon in the first round of the playoffs, the Bulls are banking on their home advantage to secure a victory and potentially face off against the Northampton Saints in the quarterfinals.
Similarly, the Stormers are banking on a few favorable results to advance in the playoffs. Their strong record at Cape Town Stadium gives them hope for success, but they face tough competition from teams like La Rochelle in the upcoming rounds.
The Sharks have redirected their focus towards the Challenge Cup, where a victory could secure them a place in the next Champions Cup. With a Springbok-laden side, they are expected to perform well in the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Cheetahs and Lions face tougher paths to the Challenge Cup semifinals, with challenging matchups against teams like Clermont and Benetton.
Overall, the South African franchises are gearing up for tough but exciting competitions in the European club playoffs, hoping to defy the odds and make their mark on the international stage.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
