Bordeaux Bègles secured a 38-26 victory over Bath in the Champions Cup semi-final, setting up a final clash with Leinster in Bilbao. Maxime Lucu was instrumental, scoring 18 points, including a try, while Louis Bielle-Biarrey added another try to his impressive season tally.
Match Overview
Bath hoped to recreate the magic of their 1998 Champions Cup triumph in Bordeaux, but the hosts proved too strong. Despite a brace from Will Muir, Bath could not overcome the relentless pressure from the French side. Johann van Graan, Bath's director of rugby, expressed frustration over three uncited head contacts on Alfie Barbeary, though he praised the officials' efforts.
First Half Action
Bordeaux started explosively, with Marko Gazzotti scoring within two minutes. Bath responded quickly through Muir after a pinpoint cross-field kick from Ben Spencer. However, Bielle-Biarrey extended Bordeaux's lead with a try, his 29th in 27 games this season. Muir scored his second try after a powerful surge from Henry Arundell, but Bordeaux regained control before halftime. Lucu scored under the posts after a dazzling move with Matthieu Jalibert, giving Bordeaux a 24-12 lead at the break.
Second Half Drama
Bath narrowed the gap early in the second half through Louie Hennessey, but Bordeaux's depth proved decisive. A try from Ben Tameifuna and a late score from Temo Matiu sealed the win, despite a last-minute try from Tom Carr-Smith. Bath's hopes were further dented by a sin-bin for Charlie Ewels and a disallowed try for Gaëtan Barlot after a TMO review.
Key Performances
Lucu's all-round game was pivotal, while Bielle-Biarrey continued his exceptional form. For Bath, Muir's finishing was a highlight, but the team struggled to maintain consistency against a formidable Bordeaux side. Van Graan lamented the lack of footage for potential head injuries, calling for consistency in officiating.
Looking Ahead
Bordeaux will now face Leinster in the final in Bilbao on May 22, aiming to retain the trophy they won last year. Bath, meanwhile, reflect on a valiant effort but must wait longer for an English club to win the Champions Cup, with the last triumph dating back to 2020.
Challenge Cup Semi-Final
In the Challenge Cup, Montpellier edged Dragons 18-12 to set up a final against Ulster. Aneurin Owen scored twice for Dragons, but Montpellier held on after a late fightback.
