Bath is about to embark on a very tough journey as they take on clubs from all over Europe. Obviously it's the Champions Cup and Bath has an opportunity to show that they are the best in all of Europe. It won't be easy as they are taking on some formidable sides from countries like France, Ireland, and even a familiar foe from the Premiership, however, is it supposed to be easy to be crowned champion of Europe? This preview will take a look at the teams Bath will face during the competition in the Group Stage.
La Rochelle
La Rochelle is one of the favorites in the tournament, so already an extremely tough opponent. The French club has won the tournament twice and are looking to win a third. Irish legend Ronan O'Gara is the head coach and he has instilled strength and excellent tactics in the club, so there's two areas right off the bat that Bath will have to matchup with.
Leinster
Leinster has won this tournament four times and are looking for a fifth. The Irish juggernaut essentially features the Irish national team players as their main contributors, but it goes to show how strong they are. Head Coach Leo Cullen has been the man in charge for a while. The club has failed to win the tournament in three consecutive editions as they've reached the Champions Cup final only to lose each of them (two at the hands of La Rochelle ironically). Leinster are deep and when considered as the "Irish national team" of the United Rugby Championship, you know how good they are and how much of a handful they will be for Bath.
Bristol Bears
The only team in the Premiership to defeat Bath thus far in the season, Bristol is going to be another formidable foe for whomever they play against. Already featured in the Premiership Match Day Previews, Bears have a strong side that could frustrate a lot of teams just like they did to Bath. The two rivals could be pushing each other for a spot in the next round, but they won't face one another in this group. Head Coach Pat Lam seemingly has a very hard game plan to figure out and that will be hard for all the sides to prepare for.
Clermont
Clermont is another French side that will be difficult for Bath as they always have made great performances in the tournament and still haven't won it yet. They are strong side as they have some intriguing talent on the team especially some internationals featuring. The club plays in a very tough Top 14 league where the competition is very tight.
Benetton
Italy has long been known as a side on the international stage that is on the rise. While the international results have been less than promising the last 25 years, the Italian club is a very exciting side from the URC. They possess a lot of Italian talent and some internationals, but it will be an uphill climb for the club to get out of the group. Maybe they'll cause some upsets and get out of the group.
Champions Cup Fixtures
Match One: La Rochelle
Match Two: Benetton
Match Three: Clermont
Match Four: Leinster
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