Union Bordeaux Begles vs Saracens FC Prediction & Betting Tips - Champions Cup

Prediction published on 13/01/2024, 10:30  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 14/01/2024 at 04:30 in Champions Cup Prediction

Saracens are set to travel and face Union Bordeaux-Begles in the Investec Champions Cup on Sunday. The current champions of the Gallagher Premiership find themselves in the fourth position in Pool 1 following a dramatic win against Connacht Rugby and a challenging defeat in Pretoria against the Vodacom Bulls. Their league performance has been inconsistent as well, marked by losses to Sale Sharks and Leicester Tigers, with a victory against the struggling Newcastle Falcons over the Christmas period. Compounded by injuries and suspensions, the team's depth has been tested, and some key players are showing signs of ageing. As a result, Saracens coach Mark McCall has made eight changes to his starting XV for Sunday’s clash, including the return of Alex Goodeto to the backline alongside Alex Lewington and Sean Maitland. Ivan van Zyl also comes into the starting lineup to partner Owen Farrell in the halves pairing. 

The balance in Pool 1 is precarious, with three teams holding five points each. However, Union Bordeaux-Begles have positioned themselves impressively at the top of the group. The Begles enter the game with an impressive streak of seven consecutive victories in all competitions. Their last defeat was against Investec Champions Cup holders Stade Rochelais in November. Since then, guided by an outstanding backline led by Damian Penaud, they showed their strength by dominating Connacht Rugby and Bristol Bears in the first two matches of this competition. Additionally, they secured convincing victories against USAP and Lyon in the Top 14, along with tighter wins over Aviron Bayonnais, Oyonnax Rugby, and ASM Clermont Auvergne. Securing another victory this weekend would almost certainly guarantee Union Bordeaux-Begles a comfortable passage to the next round.