– “Stade Français triumphs over UBB”
– “UBB suffers defeat against Stade Français”.

Stade Français wins clash against Bordeaux-Bègles

Romain Buros secures victory with a game-winning interception

The Parisian club emerged victorious in a thrilling clash against Bordeaux-Bègles, defeating them 30-26. This was Bordeaux-Bègles’ first home loss of the season.

In a match filled with tension and uncertainty between the second and third-placed teams in the championship, the outcome was ultimately decided by a stroke of luck. In the dying moments of the game, Parisian winger Stéphane Ahmed made a crucial interception, reading a pass from Ben Tapuai perfectly. Ahmed, who previously played for Bordeaux-Bègles, ran between the posts to secure the victory for Stade Français. This win brings them level with Bordeaux-Bègles in the league standings. The recent internal tensions surrounding the management of Karim Ghezal, their head coach, seem to have forged a stronger team spirit among the Parisian players, who displayed great focus and determination to achieve this victory in Gironde.

Bordeaux-Bègles, who had been unbeaten at home this season and had won their previous five Top 14 matches, lacked the necessary firepower, especially in their backline, to overcome the resilient Parisian side.

It is not to diminish the efforts of the players on the field, but without their influential national team players who are preparing for the upcoming match against Ireland, Bordeaux-Bègles did not perform at the same level, at least not consistently.

Quality on display

Despite this, there was still plenty of quality on display throughout the match. Tevita Tatafu scored a superb try in the 18th minute, showcasing excellent teamwork and precise passing. Romain Buros also scored a try from a penalty kick taken quickly by Paul Abadie from 90 meters out (18-6, 25).

Feeling slightly stunned, Sekou Macalou and his teammates patiently waited for their opponents to show signs of weakness. They then struck back with two tries in the space of three minutes. Sergo Abramishvili scored after a lineout, followed by captain Jeremy Ward, who finished off a chaotic play with Macalou providing the decisive pass (36, 21-20). The second half was more strategic, with both teams displaying strong and tenacious defense. Joris Segonds’ flawless kicking gave Stade Français the advantage (53).

In response, Yannick Bru’s team opted for lineouts instead of taking penalty kicks in an attempt to regain the lead. This decision paid off as replacement hooker Romain Latterrade scored from a well-executed driving maul (56). Just when it seemed like Bordeaux-Bègles would secure a narrow victory, Ahmed dashed the hopes of the 28,000 Chaban supporters with his interception.

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Overall, it was a thrilling encounter between two top teams in the Top 14 championship. Stade Français showcased their resilience and determination, while Bordeaux-Bègles, missing some key players, fell short in their quest for victory. This win provides a much-needed boost for Stade Français, who will look to build on this success in the coming weeks.