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Champions Cup Updates: Clermont Auvergne v Leinster
Joey Carbery returns to Leinster’s squad as the Irish side open their European campaign against Clermont in a physical first-round match.
- On Saturday, October 17, 2026, Leinster opened their Champions Cup campaign against ASM Clermont Auvergne at the Stade Marcel-Michelin in France, with referee Matthew Carley officiating under wet conditions.
- Before kickoff, both teams observed a moment of silence honoring South African lock Hyron Andrews, who tragically died on Friday while traveling with the Lions for their game against La Rochelle.
- Dan Sheehan captains Leinster in the continued absence of Caelan Doris, while Joey Carbery returns after eight years; Clermont is led by Harry Plummer with 19-year-old prop Nohem Ez Zahouany starting.
- The match opened as a tense, scoreless battle reflecting their physical rivalry, recalling Leinster's tight 15-7 victory at the Aviva Stadium two years ago when Clermont caused significant lineout problems.
- Beaten finalists last season, Leinster seeks to add to their four European titles this year while addressing their lack of maul tries, a noted tactical gap this season.
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10 Articles
10 Articles
The ASM's three-quarter centre quickly established itself in Auvergne, an asset against Leinster this Saturday. Before leaving at the end of the season for a new challenge.
·Paris, France
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Without much surprise, the Clermontois failed to stop the Leinster machine (23-48), despite the notable performances of Harry Plummer and Kevin Noah. On the contrary,......
Coverage Details
Total News Sources10
Leaning Left2Leaning Right2Center1Last UpdatedBias Distribution40% Left, 40% Right
Bias Distribution
- 40% of the sources lean Left, 40% of the sources lean Right
40% Right
L 40%
C 20%
R 40%
Factuality
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