Match preview for Top 14 clash

On Sunday at 21:05, the Stade Rochelais will host the Union Bordeaux-Bègles (UBB) at Marcel-Deflandre Stadium in a high-stakes Top 14 match. The two teams are currently tied at the top of the league, with the UBB holding just one point more in the standings.

Stade Rochelais' preparation

Assistant coach Romain Sazy, speaking to Sud-Ouest, described an intense week of training for the Rochelais players, who were « involved from the start of the week » and « eager to be there. » Sazy emphasized the team's focus on making a strong collective performance and acknowledged the desire of international players to shine in « prime time. »

Importance of the match

Stade Rochelais captain Jules Favre expressed the significance of the match, saying, « In front of our supporters, we don't want to miss out on a big match like this. » He called the game an « huge appointment, » highlighting the expectations of the fans.

Challenges for Stade Rochelais

The Rochelais have struggled with starting strong in recent matches, including losses to Racing 92 (10-20) and Clermont (38-13), and a difficult start in the Champions Cup against the Lions. Favre acknowledged these issues but expressed confidence in the team's ability to overcome them.

League standings and history

The Stade Rochelais has finished 7th and 6th in the past two seasons, while the UBB has finished higher in two of the last three seasons. However, the 2025-2026 season saw the Rochelais finish ahead of the UBB, ending the season in 6th place with 72 points compared to the UBB's 70 points.

UBB's strong start

The UBB has had a strong start to the 2025-2026 season, with four wins in six rounds and 19 points. They have defeated teams such as Racing 92, Stade Français, and Lyon, and narrowly beaten Clermont. Their only losses have been to Toulouse and Perpignan.

Stade Rochelais' performance

The Stade Rochelais has also performed well this season, with four wins in six rounds and 18 points. They have victories over Toulouse, Clermont, and Lyon, but have lost to Racing 92 and Pau. The team is looking to build on these results in their upcoming match against the UBB.