European Challenge Cup Betting Tips: April 4-6, 2023
Anticipated EPCR Challenge Cup Outcomes - Sixteen-Team Stage
Get ready for an exhilarating weekend of European rugby as the Challenge Cup heats up! Here's a lowdown on the upcoming matches:
Edinburgh v Lions (Friday, 4 April - 21:00)
Battles between these Scottish and South African rival clubs are always fiery! The Lions hold a 2-1 edge in their previous encounters, winning both ties at Ellis Park and narrowly losing in Edinburgh (17-16) just last year. After a rocky start this season, the Lions are now down in the dumps following a 42-0 thrashing by the Warriors. Despite their recent struggles, the Lions love to relish the underdog role. Edinburgh, on the other hand, have been in fine form, grabbing two wins in their last three United Rugby Championship games, most recently trouncing the Dragons 38-5. Going by current form, Edinburgh might just edge out the Lions by a comfortable margin.
Pau v Bath (Friday, 4 April - 21:00)
In this clash of French and English powers, Pau are riding high with Alex Desperes, the competition's leading points scorer, amassing 52 points so far. Pau boast a mixed record in the pool stage, losing to the Lions and Ospreys but beating Newcastle and the Dragons. Bath, however, have been impressive, leading the Premiership and riding a five-game winning streak. They've also thumped Pau on all their three encounters in Challenge Cup action. Expect an already-decided trend to continue as Bath triumph by nine points.
Bayonne v Bulls (Saturday, 5 April - 13:30)
Bayonne secured a home knockout with wins over Scarlets, Black Lion, and Gloucester in the Champions Cup, while the Bulls gained their only victory against Stade Francais (48-7) in the same competition. The Bulls' impressive performance last weekend (63-24 over Zebre) coupled with their physical prowess makes them strong contenders for the silverware. Bayonne's star-studded roster, including Manu Tuilagi, Reece Hodge, and Mateo Carreras, should offer a tough challenge but the Bulls should manage to emerge victorious by a narrow margin of five points.
Montpellier v Gloucester (Saturday, 5 April - 18:30)
Two-time champions Montpellier have enjoyed an unbeaten pool stage, sending Dragons, Ospreys, Lions, and Falcons packing. Gloucester, last season's runners-up, managed victories against Edinburgh and Scarlets but were bested by Vannes and Bayonne. Home field advantage might just tip the scales in Montpellier's favor in this high-stakes clash.
Perpignan v Racing 92 (Saturday, 5 April - 21:00)
In this all-French affair, Perpignan will aim to take advantage of home ground while Rugby 92 looks to bring their offensive prowess to the table. But history shows that the home side usually triumphs in their rivalry, so Perpignan is expected to win by four points.
Connacht v Cardiff (Saturday, 5 April - 21:00)
Ranked as the highest club after a flawless pool stage, Connacht will welcome Cardiff, aiming to reach a home final. Connacht edged out Cardiff 28-19 on the road in their earlier encounter, but Cardiff did add momentum with the final being on home turf at the Principality Stadium. However, Connacht's relentless form this season should help them secure a confident victory by nine points.
Lyon v Sharks (Sunday, 6 April - 18:30)
Champions Lyon welcome the Sharks to Matmud Stadium de Garland in a classic showdown. Lyon stormed through their opening games against Cardiff and Zebre before succumbing to Connacht. The Sharks suffered a disappointing showing in the Champions Cup, clinching just one win against the Exeter Chiefs. With their Springbok-laden squad, the Durbanites have what it takes to retain their trophy, but Lyon's formidable home record, which includes victories over the likes of La Rochelle and Toulon, gives them a slight edge. Expect the Sharks to pull off an upset, winning by two points.
Ospreys v Scarlets (Sunday, 6 April - 18:30)
After a close match-up last weekend with hosts the Scarlets winning 38-22, the Scarlets will make the short trip down the road for this derby. Both clubs have been evenly matched this season, and some edge might go to the Scarlets, given they're playing at home previously. However, in this instance, the Ospreys will take better advantage of their home field, winning by a narrow margin of five points.
Quintin van Jaarsveld, a former MDDA-Sanlam Local Sports Journalist of the Year, offers insightful sports coverage across rugby union, rugby league, and additional sports. Follow him for expert analysis!
- In the European Challenge Cup, Glasgow Warriors, known for their aggressive style, are strong candidates for victory, given their excellent form and the 'Sports Fever' surrounding them.
- Betting enthusiasts should keep an eye on the match between Bayonne and Cheetahs, as the latter's impressive performance and physical prowess suggest a close encounter, with the Cheetahs potentially adding another win to their tally by a narrow margin.
- In the same tournament, Connacht's current 'unbeaten streak' and consistent form make them firm favorites against Cardiff, with a potential victory margin of nine points.
- The all-French encounter between Perpignan and Racing 92 could see a home advantage tip the scales in Perpignan's favor by four points, according to many tips and predictions.
