Chauny, Aisne (Issuewire.com) - LIVE! Benetton vs Exeter Chiefs Live Free European Challenge Cup Quarter-final On TV April 12, 2026
The EPCR Challenge Cup Quarter-Final is unfolding today, Sunday, April 12, 2026, at the Stadio Comunale di Monigo in Treviso, Italy. The clash between Benetton Rugby and the Exeter Chiefs represents a monumental "first" for both clubs, as they have never met in competitive European play until this high-stakes knockout encounter.
With a place in the semi-finals against Ulster Rugby on the line, the atmosphere in Treviso is electric, pitting the Italian flair of the United Rugby Championship against the structured power of the Gallagher Premiership.
The Journey to the Quarter-Finals
Both sides secured their place in the final eight through grit and high-scoring affairs in the Round of 16:
Benetton Rugby: Survived an absolute thriller at home last weekend, edging out Cardiff Rugby in a 38–35 shootout. Their ability to score under pressure at Monigo has turned the stadium into a fortress this season.
Exeter Chiefs: Earned their ticket with a dominant 31–21 victory over Munster. The Chiefs’ pack was the story of that match, grinding down the Irish giants and proving that Rob Baxter’s "new look" squad is ready for European silverware.
The Tactical Battle: Italian Flair vs. Devon Grit
1. The Set Piece Struggle
Exeter’s success starts and ends with their set piece. Led by captain Dafydd Jenkins, the Chiefs possess one of the most efficient lineout and maul systems in the Northern Hemisphere. For Benetton, the challenge is to disrupt the "Exeter Machine" at the source. If the Italians can find parity in the scrum and deny Exeter the five-meter lineout opportunities, they can force the game into the open field where their backs thrive.
2. The Return of the Internationals
Exeter has notably selected three Italian internationals—including rising star Ross Vintcent—for this trip to Treviso. Having players who are intimately familiar with the Italian playing style and the conditions at Monigo provides the Chiefs with a unique "inside" advantage.
3. Benetton’s Home Advantage
Benetton has been a formidable force at home this season. Their backline, fueled by the creativity of their half-backs, has consistently found gaps in Tier 1 defenses. However, their recent form in the URC has been described as "mediocre," and they must find the same European spark that saw them dismantle Cardiff if they hope to stop a surging Exeter side.
Key Matchups to Watch
Dafydd Jenkins (Exeter) vs. Federico Ruzza (Benetton): A battle of elite locks. Ruzza is the heart of the Benetton engine room and will need to match Jenkins’ work rate in the loose and leadership in the tight.
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (Exeter) vs. Onisi Ratave (Benetton): Feyi-Waboso is currently the most talked-about winger in the Premiership, coming off a "wonder try" against Munster. Ratave’s physicality and finishing ability make this a heavyweight clash on the wing.
Official Lineups
Exeter Chiefs Starting XV:
Scott Sio
Jack Yeandle
Jimmy Roots
Dafydd Jenkins (c)
Andrea Zambonin
Tom Hooper
Ross Vintcent
Greg Fisilau
(Backs to be finalized via matchday updates)
Broadcast & Kick-Off Information
Venue: Stadio Comunale di Monigo, Treviso
Referee: Luc Ramos (France)
Kick-off: 12:30 BST / 13:30 Local Time
Live TV: Premier Sports (UK), FloRugby (US), SuperSport (South Africa)
Final Outlook: The winner of this clash will move on to face Ulster in the semi-finals. While Exeter enters as the slight favorite due to their pedigree and form, Benetton’s ability to win "shootouts" at home makes this one of the most unpredictable matches of the 2026 European season.
Media Contact
rugby missyounimura@gmail.com
