Bordeaux-Begles Win First Champions Cup Over Northampton Saints

Bordeaux-Bègles secured their first-ever Champions Cup title with a 28-20 victory over Northampton Saints in Cardiff, marking the fifth consecutive win for French clubs in the tournament. Despite an early try from Northampton's Alex Coles, the Saints suffered significant setbacks with injuries to key backs George Furbank and James Ramm, which impacted their tactical approach. Bordeaux's Damian Penaud was a standout performer, scoring two tries, while locks Adam Coleman and Cyril Cazeaux also contributed crucial scores. The match featured intense physicality and tactical battles, with both teams receiving yellow cards, but Bordeaux maintained territorial dominance and set-piece superiority throughout. Maxime Lucu's leadership and kicking, combined with strong scrum and lineout performances, helped Bordeaux hold off Northampton's late efforts to close the gap. The victory represents a historic milestone for Bordeaux and continues the Top 14's dominance in European club rugby.