Stade Francais Paris vs Clermont Prediction & Betting Tips - Top 14

Prediction published on 04/01/2024, 11:00  by Nella Wagah | Modified on 06/01/2024 at 03:00 in Rugby Predictions

Redemption will be on the cards when Stade Francais host Clermont in Saturday’s Top 14 clash. Stade Francais’ impressive season leaves them fifth while Clermont's recent poor form has seen them plummet to ninth. The hosts didn’t have a great ending to 2023, after suffering a 19-5 defeat to Toulonnais. Discipline was Stade Francais’s major undoing with Brad Weber and Baptiste Pesenti being sin binned. Melvyn Jaminet had a game to remember for Toulonnais as he registered 14 points in the game. The cornerstone of Stade Francais’ season has been a sturdy defense that has conceded the least points (185). The Parisians have only soaked in 15 tries, conceded in 11 matches so far this season. Their scrum however has been their Achilles heel having misplaced 21 balls which is the worst in the championship.

Just like their weekend opponents, Clermont ended the year on a sour note after going down to Bordeaux Begles 35-40. The defeat prolonged their losing run to three games following defeats to Section Paloise and Gloucester in the Challenge Cup. The visitors have their work cut out to make the playoffs as they are currently five points off the bracket. Clermont’s poor form has also extended to their travels where they have gone three games without victory. The 2017 Top 14 champions will look to Peceli Yato for inspiration in the game having landed four tries. Benjamín Urdapilleta will also be key in their quest for success with his kicks earning 76 points for Clermont.