Four compelling fixtures await this weekend (April 10 to 12) as the EPCR Challenge Cup reaches the quarter-final stage. With places in the semi-finals - and ultimately a shot at the Bilbao 2026 Final - on the line, the intensity is set to rise across a blockbuster weekend of European rugby.
Ulster Rugby v Stade Rochelais - Friday 10 April - Affidea Stadium
The quarter-finals begin with a standout clash between European heavyweights Ulster Rugby and Stade Rochelais.
The sides last met during the 2022/23 Champions Cup pool stage, where Stade Rochelais secured victory en route to lifting the trophy for a second consecutive season.
Ulster enter the contest with a perfect home record in this season’s competition and will look to make full use of home advantage. Ronan O’Gara’s Stade Rochelais, meanwhile, bring significant European pedigree - as two-time Champions Cup winners - to what will no doubt be a massive clash.
Montpellier Hérault Rugby v Connacht Rugby - Saturday 11 April - Septeo Stadium
Two-time winners Montpellier Hérault Rugby - unbeaten in this season’s competition - welcome Connacht Rugby for their second meeting of the campaign, having edged their pool stage clash by just two points.
Connacht were eliminated at the quarter-final stage last season, while Montpellier exited in the Round of 16, adding extra motivation for both sides to progress further this year.
Zebre Parma v Dragons RFC - Saturday 11 April – Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi
Zebre Parma host their first-ever EPCR Challenge Cup quarter-final as they take on Dragons RFC.
While Zebre benefit from home advantage, Dragons will draw confidence from their away victory in the Round of 16, underlining their resilience on the road.
The sides last met in 2023 - also the last time Dragons reached the quarter-finals - when Zebre secured a narrow three-point win at home.
Benetton Rugby v Exeter Chiefs - Sunday 12 April - Stadio Comunale di Monigo
Benetton Rugby welcome Exeter Chiefs in a first-ever meeting between the clubs, bringing the quarter-final weekend to an exciting close.
Benetton are unbeaten in this season’s competition and have reached the semi-finals in both 2023 and 2024. Exeter Chiefs also boast strong European credentials, having won the Champions Cup in 2020 and making the semi-finals in 2023. Expect a fiercely contested finish to the weekend.
