Provence Rugby vs. Grenoble: Key Clash for Top 14 Promotion
Provence Rugby is eyeing a significant dual accomplishment against Grenoble after already securing a convincing victory (44-20) in the championship encounter a fortnight ago. This Thursday, they meet again at the Stade Maurice-David for the first semi-final, a crucial match leading to a potential promotion to the Top 14.
With an impressive record of 20 wins, 2 draws, and 8 losses during the regular season, Aix-en-Provence has demonstrated consistent dominance. However, they must not forget their first loss of 2024 when Grenoble handed them a comprehensive defeat (45-10). Adding to the momentum, Grenoble's team, led by Steeve Blanc-Mappaz in his final season, approaches the semi-final brimming with confidence after obliterating Dax in the playoffs (58-10).
Upcoming Semi-Finals and Final Details
The semi-final between Aix-en-Provence and Grenoble is scheduled for Thursday, May 30 at 9 p.m. and will be broadcast on Canal + Sport. The other semi-final on Friday, May 31, sees Vannes (2nd in the regular season) face off against Béziers (3rd) at 9 p.m. The winners of these matches will compete in the final on June 8 in Toulouse. A victory in the final will secure direct promotion to the Top 14. The losing team will still have a chance to advance by playing a relegation playoff against Montpellier, 13th in the Top 14, at home.
- Grenoble concluded the season in strong form, securing the second position in the standings and winning 9 out of their last 10 matches. Despite a single setback against Aix-en-Provence on May 17, they enter the semi-final with high morale.
- In their pursuit of former glory, Béziers, the veteran club, will have to overcome a challenging opponent in Vannes. The club, which hasn't been beaten since March 2022, aims to spoil the long-standing championship aspirations of Béziers, a club with eleven French championship titles.
