European Champions Cup Preview - Saracens v Racing 92

It’s been a very different journey over the years for both of these teams, but come Saturday evening, one will reach the holy grail and be crowned Champions of Europe for the first time in their history. The short and long term histories of these clubs of these clubs bear little resemblance, bar their relatively deep pockets.

History

Racing 92 will make their first appearance in a European final, having only been formed as a team in 2001 when Racing Club de France and US Métro decided to join forces. Their ascent to the Top14 was secured in 2009 and it has been a turbulent few years with a swinging door policy when it comes to personnel. They now have a more settled team and their key men this season have been Chris Masoe in the pack and the most potent 9-10 combination in the tournament between Machenaud and Carter.

Saracens meanwhile, are making their second appearance in a European Final, having been badly burnt by a rampant Toulon in their previous appearance. Their history is much more established and they can boast some high profile alumni including the likes of Michael Lynagh, Philippe Sella, Francois Pienaar. They have been sublime this season. Itoje, Kruis and Vunipola have given them the grunt up front, while Ashton and Goode have been prolific in the backs.

In terms of their route to the final, Saracens have been the more ruthless and remain unbeaten going into Saturday, including an impressive win away at Ulster. Racing meanwhile stuttered through their group, which included a loss away to Glasgow and a draw versus Scarlets. Despite this, they raised their game to dispose of defending Champions Toulon in the knockout stages and have been on a clear upward trajectory.

So where will the battle be won? There are so many interesting battles. The French pack will match Saracens blow for blow. Saracens will undoubtedly get some front foot ball through Vunipola, but Racing will be ferocious at the breakdown, especially in attack where they will look to clear out defenders and make space for the sniping Machanaud, who will be a major threat. Carter will be pulling the strings and if it comes down to a battle between the two tens, there will only be one winner.

The big advantage Saracens hold is their experience. Having played in a European Cup Final will help them immensely, and the hunger from their humbling experience against Toulon will stand to them and may prove the difference. To counter this, Racing will have not forgotten their home loss to Saracens in last years Quarterfinal, and will be out for revenge. Other factors include the match being played in France, which is an obvious advantage to Racing, who should in theory have more supporters in the stands.

It’s a tough one to call, but taking everything into account and given Racing’s constant improvement over the course of the season, they may peak at the perfect time. Saracens may just fell short against the new French Galacticos, but it will be one heck of a battle.

Fred Culazzo - writing for www.TheRugbyPod.com