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Stormers Face Racing 92 in Critical Champions Cup Test in Paris

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innis & gunn

The Stormers are riding high on a three-match winning streak, but their resilience will be put to the test as they face Racing 92 in Paris tomorrow night at 10 PM in the Champions Cup’s final group-stage round.

The Stormers, under coach John Dobson, have clawed their way back from a dismal run of form, including a crushing 53-16 defeat to Harlequins in December. Since then, the team has regrouped, securing victories over the Lions, Sharks, and a dominant 40-0 triumph over Sale Sharks in Cape Town.

However, these wins were achieved on home soil, where packed stadiums and passionate fans energize the team. Now, the challenge lies in replicating that success away from the comfort of their loyal supporters.

Currently ranked fourth in their Champions Cup pool, the Stormers need a win to solidify their place in the competition’s knockout stages. Racing 92, despite their struggles in the tournament, remain a dangerous opponent.

Racing boasts a mix of seasoned talent, including French internationals Gaël Fickou and Cameron Woki, as well as international stars like Owen Farrell and Henry Arundell. The team also features former Stormers forward Hacjivah Dayimani.

Assistant coach Dawie Snyman acknowledged the significance of this match in proving the Stormers’ growth:

“We have turned a corner in how we play in overseas games. There were questions about our ability to play overseas, but last year, we beat both Stade Français and Connacht away on 4G pitches.”

The Stormers have struggled in international settings, with disappointing losses to Ospreys, Edinburgh, and Glasgow in their United Rugby Championship (URC) campaign. However, Snyman believes the lessons learned from these experiences have prepared the team for this crucial encounter.

“We want to do well overseas and tour well. That’s going to be important for us as a squad going forward,” Snyman emphasized.

Racing 92, coached by Stuart Lancaster, are ninth in the Top 14, with just five wins in 14 games. Despite their struggles, their roster includes high-caliber players and a well-drilled backline led by Frederic Michalak and Joe Rokocoko.

Owen Farrell, returning from injury, will make his comeback in this match, adding to the intrigue. Lancaster hinted Farrell may not play the full 80 minutes but is confident in his readiness to start.

With both teams needing a win, this clash promises to be a thrilling battle. For the Stormers, tomorrow’s game represents more than just a chance to advance; it’s an opportunity to solidify their reputation as a competitive force, even in challenging overseas conditions.

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