Exeter Clinch Thrilling Win Over Benetton as Slade Scores Decisive Penalty

Henry Slade's late penalty sealed a 44-41 victory for Exeter over Benetton, setting up a semi-final showdown against Ulster in Belfast. After Jacob Umaga's try gave the hosts a 41-38 lead with 15 minutes remaining, Slade equalized with a penalty and then kicked the winning points in the 78th minute, sparking outrage among the home fans. The first half was marked by a frantic pace, with Exeter taking a 14-7 lead through Olly Woodburn's score and a penalty try, before extending their advantage to 24-14. However, Benetton levelled the score by halftime, thanks to an outstanding try from Onisi Ratave and Umaga's conversion and penalty. Exeter regained the lead early in the second half through Harvey Skinner's converted try, but the hosts drew level again through Bautista Bernasconi. The visitors then pulled ahead 38-31 after Andrea Zambonin's try, only for Umaga to kick a penalty and score a try, giving Benetton their first lead since the eighth minute. Ultimately, Slade's boot proved decisive. In another quarter-final match, Bordeaux defeated Toulouse 30-15 to set up a semi-final against Bath. Despite Toulouse's strong start, Bordeaux's defence held firm, and Maxime Lamothe powered over in the 23rd minute. The visitors responded instantly, but a red card for Dorian Aldegheri late in the first half hindered Toulouse's progress. Bordeaux rallied in the second half, with Matthieu Jalibert and Ben Tameifuna scoring crucial tries, before Arthur Retiere sealed the win with a try in the corner.