Stade Français Faces Tough Loss Against Saracens in Champions Cup
Stade Français Paris suffered a disappointing defeat against Saracens London, losing 17-28 at their home ground, Jean-Bouin, on Sunday. This marks their second consecutive loss in the Champions Cup, following a previous rout against Munster (33-7). The match was particularly challenging for the Parisians, who played with only 14 men for a significant portion of the game due to indiscipline.
The match began positively for Stade Français, who took an early lead with a try from winger Peniasi Dakuwaqa in the 4th minute, following a well-executed play by fly-half Zack Henry. The Parisians showed promise with a solid start, leading 10-0 by the 13th minute. However, the tide turned when flanker Sekou Macalou received a red card in the 21st minute for a reckless tackle on scrum-half Ivan Van Zyl, which shifted the momentum in favor of Saracens.
Following Macalou's expulsion, Saracens capitalized on their numerical advantage, scoring a try through Liam Williams and taking the lead by halftime (10-13). The second half saw further disciplinary issues for Stade Français, with Tanginoa Halaifonua receiving a yellow card for a dangerous tackle, leaving the team at a disadvantage once again. Saracens extended their lead with a try from Jamie George shortly after the break.
Despite a brief resurgence from Stade Français, highlighted by a try from Léo Barré in the 69th minute, Saracens sealed their victory with a final try from Theo Dan in the 74th minute. This loss leaves Stade Français in a precarious position in the Champions Cup, with their chances of qualification now severely compromised. The team will need to regroup quickly as they prepare to face Perpignan in a crucial domestic match next Saturday.
