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Bulls, Stormers' daunting task to change Champions Cup narrative 

By Angus Opperman
Thursday 2 Apr 2026

OPINION: The Bulls and Stormers have the daunting task of changing the narrative about South African teams’ involvement in the EPCR Champions Cup, writes Angus Opperman.

The two SA franchises will travel to Scotland and France, respectively, for the upcoming Round of 16 Champions Cup clashes.

The Bulls will come up against Glasgow Warriors at Scotstoun Stadium, whilst the Stormers will make their debut at the Stade Mayol in Toulon.

No South African team has progressed beyond the quarterfinal stage of the Champions Cup, with the Stormers losing to Exeter Chiefs in 2023, whilst the Bulls lost to Northampton Saints in 2024.

Both those defeats were on overseas soil, and their upcoming Round of 16 clashes will be as well.

South African sides have been (rightfully to some extent) criticised for not treating the competition with the seriousness and respect it deserves by sending under-strength teams in the pool stages and even knockout games.

Also read: How favours from rivals will boost SA’s four-team URC play-off dream

The Bulls slipped into the Round of 16 through the back door, whilst Glasgow Warriors seem like the team to beat this season, going unbeaten in the Champions Cup and topping the table in the United Rugby Championship.

The article continues below…

Bulls, Stormers' daunting task to change Champions Cup narrative 

The Bulls have tasted success at Scotstoun Stadium under former coach Jake White, but have blown hot and cold this season.

The Stormers have been more consistent and have proved they can win overseas this year compared to previous seasons, but haven’t been firing on all cylinders in recent weeks.

Both teams can progress to the quarterfinals, and if they do, a South African side will be guaranteed in the Champions Cup semifinals, as they’ll face each other again after their previous URC meetings this season.

But they’ll have to be at their absolute best to change the negative narrative, and now have the perfect opportunity to rewrite the script for South African teams’ place in the world’s most prestigious club tournament.

 

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