Six-Time Champions Toulouse Seek Revenge Against Bordeaux In High-Stakes European Quarterfinal Clash

Toulouse seeks revenge against Bordeaux while Leinster hosts Sale in the Champions Cup quarterfinals. Get teams, injury news, and expert predictions.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 11, 2026, 3:59 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Rugby365

French Giants Collide In Potential Tournament Decider

The highlight of the Investec Champions Cup quarterfinals features a high-octane rematch between the current French champions and the defending European titleholders. Toulouse, historically the most dominant force in the competition with six titles, visits Bordeaux-Begles on Sunday in a fixture many experts believe could have served as the final itself. According to Toulouse hooker Peato Mauvaka, the squad is motivated by a "heartbreaking" loss to their rivals in last season's semifinal. The stakes are heightened by the return of superstar scrumhalf Antoine Dupont, who was sidelined by injury during their previous European encounter.

Bordeaux Aims To Defend Continental Crown At Home

Bordeaux-Begles enters the weekend as the tournament's reigning champions, having secured their first title in 2025. They hold significant psychological momentum over Toulouse, following a convincing 44-20 victory in league play just last month. The home side boasts a lethal backline featuring Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Salesi Rayasi, while captain Maxime Lucu leads a pack that has proven capable of outlasting the Toulouse forwards in recent second-half performances. Despite the tactical battles in the backline, Mauvaka predicts that the outcome will ultimately be decided by a "war" up front among the forwards.

Toulon Faces Glasgow Without Disciplinary-Sidelined Nonu

In Scotland, three-time champions Toulon must navigate their quarterfinal against Glasgow Warriors without the services of veteran centre Ma’a Nonu. The 43-year-old former New Zealand international was handed a three-week suspension following a high tackle during last weekend’s victory over the Stormers. Glasgow head coach Franco Smith has warned his side against complacency, noting that Toulon’s proud heritage in knockout rugby makes them a threat even without their star midfielder. The Scottish side looks to capitalize on their formidable home atmosphere at Scotstoun to secure a maiden semifinal berth.