Rugby
Stormers vs La Rochelle Preview: Odds, Tips and Prediction
Venue: Cape Town Stadium Kickoff Time: 15:00 (CAT Time) The Investec Champions Cup is always going to deliver blockbuster fixtures, and this will be no different. It’s the second round of the tournament in as many weeks, and the South African hosts will no doubt find a degree of confidence after their strong start. La Rochelle will certainly not just roll over for their Capetonian hosts; they managed to secure victory last time out against Leicester and will be eager to give a good account of themselves here. If the Stormers are to win, they will be made to work for it here. Nevertheless, this is a prime sort of Champions Cup fixture to appease even the biggest rugby betting appetite.
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Pre-Game Odds and Win Probability
Stormers: 11/100 (1.11) – 90.1%
La Rochelle: 26/5 (6.2) – 16.1%
*Odds courtesy of Betway, subject to change
Head-To-Head Record
Last two meetings
- 06/04/2024: Stormers 21–22 La Rochelle
- 16/12/2023: Stormers 21-20 La Rochelle
Stormers Current Form – WWWWW
The pride of the Western Cape comes into this match in red-hot form. They have looked to be playing fluid running rugby and hold incredible talent all over the pitch. They have got their European campaign off to the best possible start and will back themselves as the side to beat in South African at the moment.
What must be noted is that their link between powerful forwards and exciting backs make them incredibly difficult to beat. A solid base in their set pieces to launch from and a clinical approach to rugby over the past few weeks only adds to the pressure La Rochelle are going to have to deal with here.
Key Players to Watch
- Ntuthuko Mchunu
His scrummaging strength is simply something to behold. Mchunu made his Champions Cup debut last time out and showed why it will be difficult to leave him out of this Stormers side. He is certainly one to keep an eye on. - Wandisile Simelane
The young playmaker has taken his chances with both hands and has become absolutely influential through the midfield. If he is given any space and time come Saturday afternoon, the visitors could be made to pay the price. - Clinton Swart
Whether he will continue to enjoy as much game time as he has currently managed remains to be seen, now that the internationals have returned, but his recent performances justify a mention here. His boot has been the picture of consistency and incredibly valuable to this Stormers side.
La Rochelle Current Form – WLLLW
While their win last time out against Leicester was impressive, their recent performances in the Top 14 have left a lot to be desired. Whether or not they will manage to build on their opening encounter remains to be seen, but this will no doubt be a tough encounter for them to navigate.
For us, a blend of composure and defensive solidity will be the only logical route to earning them any sort of return in this game.
Key Players to Watch
- Uini Atonio
As a veteran on this side, there will likely be all eyes on him from a leadership perspective among the forwards. A strong performance from the prop is vital; disrupting the Stormers' early set piece will be crucial. - Ihaia West
At fly-half, he really does dictate the pace and play of the game. He has shown that he has the ability to keep the game ticking over, and if he is able to show a positive decision-making ability and kicking game, he might just see his side stay in the fight here. - Oscar Jegou
He is an absolute beast. A physical presence through the back row and keep an eye on him carrying with real power and intensity here. Irrespective of how good the Stormers are, he will be a real handful for them here.
Suggested Bet
Stormers Win: It isn’t going to see you retire from your day job at the end of the 80 minutes, but it’s the banker of the weekend without a shadow of a doubt. 11/100 (1.11) with Betway
Value Bet
Stormers (-16.5): It is difficult to see where the visitors are going to be able to hurt the Stormers on Saturday. The hosts are the better side in almost every facet of the game, and so we suggest taking advantage of backing them to overcome the spread of 16.5 points. 11/10 (2.1) with Supabets.
Prediction: Stormers to Win
The Western Province franchise seems to be flying the South African flag at the moment. They are playing with an intensity and a desire to win that will take some stopping. Whether or not La Rochelle is that side remains to be seen, but we don’t think so. Back the Stormers to claim an emphatic win in front of their adoring home fans.
A quirky writer with an engaging tone, Ryan Liberty has seen his work published on many of South Africa’s sport’s publications. Ryan has a great passion for everything in the sporting world, from darts to football, motorsport and everything in between. His conversational flair allows him to bring diverse sporting topics to both the avid sports fan as well as the relaxed reader.
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