Ulster v Clermont, Friday, 7.45pm, Kingspan Stadium
I thought Clermont were really impressive last weekend when they really demolished Harlequins. Belfast however, on a Friday night, is a special place.
It doesn't help the Ulster cause that Rob Lyttle, Sam Carter and Jack McGrath are all out injured after the great win in Bath.
Clermont are one of the favourites for the tournament and on that basis, you’d have to fancy them, but I notice they are starting without their regular half-backs Camile Lopez and Morgan Parra, so that’s an opportunity for Ulster.
They will have to be at their best to win this and I wouldn’t put it past them, but I think Clermont will sneak it.
Verdict: Clermont
Toulouse v Connacht, Saturday, 1pm, Stade Ernest Wallon
Connacht were superb in beating Montpellier, but it’s a different proposition this week. Toulouse are the reigning Top 14 champions and had a really good season last year. They have all of their French players back and you’d think this could be a step too far for Andy Friend’s men, given their injury profile at the moment.
I can’t see anything other than a Toulouse victory.
Verdict: Toulouse
Lyon v Leinster, Saturday, 3.15pm, Matmut Stadium de Gerland
Leinster got a freebie in many ways against Treviso in the RDS, but now take on the current table toppers in France. Lyon have won six from six in the Top 14 at home and that makes them formidable opposition.
That said, I watched Lyon against Northampton and I wasn’t overly impressed with them.
People will always say the French at home are a different proposition, but Leinster will be a better team for having had the run out against Benetton, where nine Irish World Cup players were integrated back in.
You’d expect Lyon to win, but for Leinster a minimum of a losing bonus point and the possibility of winning.
Verdict: Lyon
Munster v Racing 92, Saturday, 5.30pm, Thomond Park
For all kinds of reasons, there is a special relationship between Racing and Munster, not least for the tragedy of Anthony Foley’s sad passing the morning of a game between the two side in Paris a few years ago.
You have Donnacha Ryan and Simon Zebo coming back to Thomond Park so it will be a special occasion.
Munster, as usual, had a bit of drama in their bonus-point win over Ospreys, but they got there. Johann van Graan’s side played well, even if it was in patches.
You just don’t bet against Munster in Thomond Park and it should be a cracking game. I think they will do enough to edge it.
Verdict: Munster
