Exeter Claim Victory Over Benetton With Slade's Winning Penalty

Henry Slade's late penalty secured a 44-41 win for Exeter over Benetton, setting up a semi-final clash against Ulster in Belfast. The hosts had taken the lead through Jacob Umaga's try, but Slade's kicks turned the tide, sparking outrage among the home fans. The first half was marked by a frenetic pace, with Exeter initially leading 14-7 after Olly Woodburn's score and a penalty try. They extended their advantage to 24-14 before Onisi Ratave's outstanding try and Umaga's conversion and penalty leveled the score at halftime. The second half saw Exeter regain the lead through Harvey Skinner's try, only for Bautista Bernasconi to draw Benetton level. As the match intensified, Andrea Zambonin's try put Exeter ahead 38-31, but Umaga's penalty and try gave Benetton their first lead since the eighth minute. However, Slade's decisive kick sealed the win for Exeter. In another quarter-final match, Investec Champions Cup holders Bordeaux overcame Toulouse 30-15 to set up a semi-final against Bath. Bordeaux's defense held firm despite Toulouse's strong start, and Maxime Lamothe's try gave them the lead. Although Toulouse replied instantly, Bordeaux rallied in the second half, with Matthieu Jalibert and Ben Tameifuna scoring tries to take control of the tie. Arthur Retiere's late try and Maxime Lucu's penalty sealed the win for Bordeaux.