Players Who Matter In Northampton Saints Vs. UBB Rugby: Damian Penaud
Players Who Matter In Northampton Saints Vs. UBB Rugby: Damian Penaud
Damian Penaud eyes return for UBB in the 2024-2025 Champions Cup Final vs. Northampton after record-breaking try spree and injury scare in the semifinal.
Union Bordeaux-Bègles winger Damian Penaud is racing against time to be fit for the 2024-2025 Investec Champions Cup Final against the Northampton Saints at the Principality Stadium on May 24.
The match is being livestreamed on FloRugby in North America and all U.S. territories.
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The French international, who has been the driving force behind Bordeaux’s historic run to its first Champions Cup final, suffered an ankle injury in the semifinal victory over Toulouse.
He limped off the field in visible pain after 57 minutes, casting serious doubt over his availability for the Cardiff showdown. However, updates from French media have offered renewed hope, with initial medical reports described as “reassuring.”
Despite the injury scare, Penaud's impact on this Champions Cup campaign already has entered the tournament’s record books.
With 12 tries, he beat the previous record of 11 set by Chris Ashton in 2017.
His prolific run included a stunning six-try performance against the Sharks and a hat trick away to the Exeter Chiefs, showcasing the lethal finishing that has become his trademark.
Penaud’s form has been nothing short of electric.
His scoring spree began in Round 2 and gathered momentum as UBB marched through the competition, defeating Munster 47-29 in the quarterfinals, where he broke Ashton’s record.
Though sidelined in the latter part of the semifinal, his contribution helped Bordeaux dispatch Toulouse 35-18 to book its date with destiny.
Now 28, Penaud has evolved from his early days at Clermont, where he debuted in 2016 and lifted the Top 14 title and the Challenge Cup, into one of the most feared wings in European rugby.
He joined Bordeaux Bègles ahead of the 2023-2024 season and has quickly become a cornerstone of the team's attack.
Internationally, Penaud has earned 38 tries for France, winning Six Nations titles in 2022 and 2025, including a Grand Slam.
A flair player with the ability to turn matches on their head, his presence in Cardiff could be decisive.
UBB remains optimistic.
While he is expected to miss upcoming Top 14 fixtures, the club has not ruled him out for the final. Medical evaluations this week will determine if one of Europe’s most dynamic backs can make it to the Principality pitch and cap a record-breaking season with continental glory.
Will Penaud’s ankle hold up for one last dance in Cardiff? Rugby fans across the globe - and especially in France - are holding their breath.
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