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Champions Cup 2026-27: Are South African Teams Still Being Undervalued?

Lawrence Dallaglio has warned Europe’s leading clubs not to underestimate South African opposition when the Champions Cup returns on 16 October. There is good reason to take that warning seriously. The Bulls remain one of the United Rugby Championship’s strongest…

By The Rugby Paper Team · The Rugby Paper

Published: Friday, 9 October 2026 at 12:45 PM

Key Things to Know

The Rugby Paper argues that long Champions Cup odds for South African sides remain justified by past European results.
Lawrence Dallaglio warned European contenders not to underestimate South African teams ahead of the new campaign starting October 16.
No South African club has progressed past the Round of 16 or reached a Champions Cup semi-final.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Rugby Paper Team examines whether South African clubs are undervalued ahead of the 2026-27 Champions Cup starting on October 16. Although former England international Lawrence Dallaglio warned European clubs not to underestimate them, the article argues that long bookmaker odds are justified because no South African team has reached a tournament semi-final.

The analysis notes that while the Bulls, Stormers, and Lions possess notable talent, travel demands and historical struggles in away knockout fixtures remain major obstacles. The writer concludes that South African clubs are dangerous contenders but must prove they can win away matches in Europe during knockout stages.

Read the full article on The Rugby Paper

Champions Cup 2026-27: Are South African Teams Still Being Undervalued?

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