Clermont Auvergne loses to Leinster in Champions Cup

Clermont Auvergne lost 23-48 to Leinster in the Champions Cup on October 17, despite leading 16-15 at halftime. The defeat marked Clermont's first match of the 2026/2027 Champions Cup season, where they faced a team widely considered the strongest in Irish rugby.

Clermont manager praises young players

Christophe Urios, Clermont's manager, praised the performance of his young players despite the loss. The team had struggled in the Top 14 this season, sitting in 11th place with only two wins and four losses, but the Champions Cup match offered some positive moments.

Young talents shine in defeat

Several young players from Clermont showcased their potential against Leinster, including Nohem Ez Zahouany (19), Mathéo Frisach (20), and Louis Vermeulen (19). Although the team had difficulties in attack and a poor scrum performance, Urios acknowledged the players' courage and skill.

Ez Zahouany faces challenges and praise

Nohem Ez Zahouany, who faced Leinster's Andrew Porter, was penalized in the second scrum and conceded four penalties, leading to five total. He received a yellow card in the 57th minute. Despite this, Urios praised his effort, noting Ez Zahouany had been unable to walk after training on Tuesday due to a back injury.

Frisach makes debut on the right wing

Mathéo Frisach replaced Ez Zahouany ten minutes later and played on the right side of the field for the first time. Urios commended Frisach's composure and his lack of complaints during his debut on the right wing.

Urios moves to sports director role

Christophe Urios has been extended until the end of the decade and will transition to the role of sports director next season, with Joe El Abd taking over as coach. This change reflects a long-term strategy focused on youth development, highlighted by the recent signing of Grégoire Arfeuil from Section Paloise.

Clermont faces tough Top 14 challenge

Clermont now needs to refocus on the Top 14, where they are near the bottom of the table. Their next match will be against RC Vannes, a team that has yet to secure its first win in the elite division.