The Heineken Champions Cup semi-finals are right around the corner, and rugby fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating the big event. This year’s competition promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with four of the top teams in Europe vying for a spot in the final. As we gear up for this thrilling event, it’s important to take a closer look at the stunning venues that will be hosting the matches. From state-of-the-art stadiums to historic grounds, each location provides fans with an unforgettable experience. In this article, we’ll explore the incredible semi-final venues and discover what makes them so special.
The Heineken Champions Cup is now entering its knockout stage, and EPCR has announced the potential venues for the semi-final matches that will take place on the weekend of 28th to 30th April. The decision was made in conjunction with Premiership Rugby, the United Rugby Championship, and the Ligue Nationale de Rugby. The teams who ranked highest during the pool stage will receive the advantage of playing in their home country during the semi-finals. While the exact dates, times, and TV coverage are yet to be established, this information will be announced following this weekend’s fixtures.
The semi-final matches and their corresponding venues are attractive prospects for rugby enthusiasts. The first potential match is Leinster Rugby (A1) versus either Stade Toulousain (B2) or Cell C Sharks (A3), which will be played at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. The second semi-final match that awaits is Stade Toulousain (B2) versus Leicester Tigers (B4) at the Matmut ATLANTIQUE in Bordeaux. Meanwhile, the Cell C Sharks (A3) will play Leicester Tigers (B4) at the StoneX Stadium in London. Another match that spectators can look forward to is Stade Rochelais (B1) versus either Exeter Chiefs (A2) or DHL Stormers (B3), which will take place at the Matmut ATLANTIQUE. Exeter Chiefs (A2) will play against Saracens (A4) at the Ashton Gate Stadium in Bristol, and DHL Stormers (B3) will play against Saracens (A4) at the Twickenham Stoop in London.
If a South African representative happens to qualify for a Heineken Champions Cup as the highest-ranking club, the game will be held in Europe, as previously agreed with SARU. In addition, the venues and dates for the quarter-finals are also specified, with Leinster Rugby (A1) playing against Leicester Tigers (B4) at the Aviva Stadium on Friday, and the winners of the quarter-finals moving on to play in the semi-finals on the weekend of 28th-30th April. Finally, the 2023 Heineken Champions Cup final will take place at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on Saturday 20th May.
As the Heineken Champions Cup semi-finals draw near, the excitement is palpable among rugby fans worldwide. This year, the two venues chosen to host the matches are sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all who attend. From the state-of-the-art Ricoh Arena in Coventry to the historic Stade Marcel-Michelin in Clermont-Ferrand, each stadium has its own unique atmosphere and charm. As the top four teams in Europe battle it out for a chance to reach the final, the tension will be tangible both on and off the field. Whether you are lucky enough to secure a ticket or watching from home, make sure to tune in and witness the drama unfold. The Heineken Champions Cup is rugby at its best, and this year’s semi-finals will surely not disappoint.
