The DHL Stormers’ European campaign has ended in heartbreak after a narrow one-point defeat to Toulon, capping off a difficult weekend for South African teams competing abroad.
The Stormers went down 28–27 to Toulon in France in a tightly contested Round of 16 encounter that remained undecided until the final moments. Despite a spirited performance and late attacking pressure, the Cape side was unable to find the decisive score needed to advance.
Toulon held a slender 14–13 lead at halftime after scoring two tries in the opening half, while the Stormers stayed within reach through disciplined kicking and structured play. The second half saw momentum shift multiple times as both sides traded control in a tense contest.
The Stormers managed to take the lead during the second half, with forward Evan Roos crossing the line following sustained pressure close to the try line. However, Toulon responded with crucial points to regain control of the match.
The closing stages provided a dramatic finish. Toulon were reduced to 14 and then 13 players in the final minutes, opening a window of opportunity for the Stormers to capitalise. A late try brought the score within a single point, but strong defensive work from the hosts denied any further breakthrough.
The result brings an end to the Stormers’ run in the Investec Champions Cup and leaves South Africa without representation in the quarterfinal stages of European competition this season.
The Vodacom Bulls were also eliminated after a narrow loss to the Glasgow Warriors in Scotland, while the Hollywoodbets Sharks exited the European Professional Club Rugby Challenge Cup following their defeat to Connacht in Ireland. With all three teams now out, attention turns back to domestic competition. The United Rugby Championship is set to resume in two weeks, giving teams time to regroup and refocus for the remainder of the season.
Source: SA Rugby – Staff report
