Champions Cup pool guide: Leinster, Munster and Connacht’s opponents reviewed and rated
This guide reviews the changes to the Champions Cup format, including a shift to an earlier start date and a new bonus-point system. It also analyzes the competitive landscape, noting the dominance of French clubs.
Why it matters
Structural changes to major sporting tournaments impact team strategies and the overall fan experience in European rugby.
The Champions Cup is back this weekend, if not with a whimper then not with the bang of its halcyon days either. In a tacit acceptance that the tournament’s profile suffered for its delayed December start since the pandemic, the first round has been brought forward to its traditional October slot of yore for the first time since 2018 and the tweaks don’t stop there .
Previously, the top four teams in each of the six-team pools qualified for the Round of 16, but this season the top three teams will advance, with the top two earning a home draw. The remaining four places will go to the next four teams with the highest number of match points, regardless of their pool.
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