Section Paloise vs Bath Rugby Prediction & Betting Tips - Challenge Cup

Prediction published on 02/04/2025, 15:00  by Ita Emmanuel | Modified on 03/04/2025 at 13:03 in Challenge Cup Predictions

French side Section Paloise will host English Premiership Cup champions Bath in this 2024-25 European Rugby Challenge Cup round-of-16 tie on Friday. The winner of this match will face either Montpellier or Gloucester for a place in the semifinals. Can Les Sectionnistes ease past the Somerset-based outfit to qualify for the quarterfinals? Here is our prediction for the match.

Section Paloise saw their three-match winning streak come to an end following a thumping 55-10 away defeat to Stade Toulousain in their last match. This result condemned the Pau-based side to their 13th defeat this season in all competitions. 

However, they have been dominant at home, winning six of their last seven matches. This includes an impressive three-match winning streak in their most recent home fixtures.

Bath will enter this match on a roaring form. Johann van Graan's side boast a terrific five match winning streak. This includes a 47-28 home victory over Harlequins in their last match and a dominant 48-14 Premiership Cup final triumph over Exeter Chiefs. 

Additionally, the 2025 Premiership Cup champions have won their last two away matches (both domestic fixtures), averaging a 23-point winning margin. They will hope to extend their winning streak on the road to three matches on Friday.