In a thrilling display of rugby that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Stade Francais staged a remarkable comeback to edge out Exeter Chiefs 27-25 in a nail-biting EPCR Challenge Cup clash in Paris. But here's where it gets controversial—was it sheer determination or tactical missteps that turned the tide in the second half? Let’s dive into the action.
The Exeter Chiefs dominated the first half, leaving Stade Francais reeling with a commanding 0-17 lead. Winger Paul Brown-Bampoe, returning to the pitch after a three-month absence, scored the first try of the match. A swift play involving Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Charlie Chapman, and Dafydd Jenkins set up Brown-Bampoe to sprint down the touchline and ground the ball in the corner. Henry Slade’s conversion added the extras. The Chiefs extended their lead with a penalty kick from Slade and a try by Scott Sio just before halftime, showcasing their relentless pressure and disciplined play.
And this is the part most people miss—Stade Francais’ transformation after the break was nothing short of extraordinary. It took 51 minutes for the home side to get on the scoreboard, with replacement tighthead Giorgi Melikidze powering over the line. From there, the floodgates opened. Thibaut Motassi scored after leaping over a ruck, and a penalty try was awarded to Stade Francais following cynical play from the Chiefs, who received two yellow cards. Charles Laloi’s bonus-point try in the corner put the French side ahead for the first time at the 68th minute.
The drama wasn’t over yet. Slade’s drop goal momentarily threatened to steal the win for Exeter, but a penalty in the Chiefs’ 22 allowed Laloi to kick the decisive points. Despite a late push from Exeter, a penalty at the ruck sealed Stade Francais’ victory in the 84th minute.
While the Chiefs secured a crucial bonus point, their path to a favorable last-16 draw now hinges on a strong performance against Cardiff Rugby next week. But here’s the question—did Exeter underestimate Stade Francais’ second-half resurgence, or was it simply a masterclass in French flair? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Full-time Score: Stade Francais 27 – 25 Exeter Chiefs
Stade Francais: J Jonas; C Laloi, J Marchant, T Vili, L Etien (Delbouis 48’); L Bourdette (Barre 46’), T Motassi; J Iscaro (Emile 48’), G Nicotera, P Emile (Melikidze 48’), P Gabrillagues, S Turagacoke (Pesenti 46’), J Scelzo, Hirigoyen, I Mapu.
Tries: Melikidze, Motassi, Penalty try, Laloi Conversions: Barre Penalties: Laloi
Exeter Chiefs: O Woodburn; I Feyi-Waboso, H Slade, W Rigg, P Brown-Bampoe; W Haydon-Wood, C Chapman; S Sio (Goodrick-Clarke 52’), J Dweba (Yeandle 52’), B Tchumbadze (J Roots 52’), D Jenkins (c) (Pearson 63’), A Zambonin (Tuima 63’), T Hooper, E Roots, G Fisilau (James 74’).
Unused replacements: Cairns, Coen
Tries: Brown-Bampoe, Sio (2) Conversions: Slade (2) Penalties: Slade Drop goal: Slade
Yellow cards: Greg Fisilau, Lewis Pearson
Referee: Craig Evans
