Angus O'Brien Aims for Upset as Dragons Face Stade Francais in Challenge Cup Clash
Not many give Dragons a chance of a Challenge Cup upset at Stade Francais on Sunday, but the same was the case 12 years ago when co-captain Angus O'Brien enjoyed a breakthrough moment in Paris. The Rodney Parade club has celebrated memorable moments in Europe, including quarter-final wins against Brive, Gloucester, and Cardiff, along with a surprise 38-22 success at Stade Jean Bouin. Filo Tiatia's side returns to Paris on Sunday in the last 16 of the tournament to face a Stade Francais team that is third in the Top 14 and won three of four Challenge Cup group games, earning a fourth seed. Despite being overwhelming favorites, similar to the match on 18 October 2014, where Dragons caused an upset in a European campaign ending with a semi-final defeat in Edinburgh, O'Brien believes in the team's potential. O'Brien reflected on that previous victory, where tries from Richie Rees, Rhys Thomas, Hallam Amos, and Nic Cudd, along with 18 points from his boot, led to a memorable win. He stated, "They are similar circumstances in that the expectation on us as a group is just from within the circle. We've got to take belief from that fact that we have been out there and won before." O'Brien, who made just his second start in that 2014 match, noted the confidence gained from that experience. Stade Francais, despite rotating their squad, boasts formidable depth and aims for a home quarter-final against either Zebre or Pau. However, Dragons have proven tougher this season, coming off spirited showings against the Stormers and Lions in South Africa. O'Brien acknowledged the challenge, stating, "They're a very good team and are going really well in the Top 14, but it's an exciting challenge we are all looking forward to." He emphasized that this knockout stage opportunity is one they are ready to seize.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-04-04