Benetton vs Lions Prediction: Bulls will take advantage of their ground

The Stadio Comunale Monigo will host the round of 16 European Challenge Cup match between Benetton and the Lions. Both teams have not been performing at their peak recently. How will this one end?

Benetton managed to clinch a victory in their recent league game, defeating Connacht 18-14. However, preceding this win, they faced three consecutive losses against Leinster, Glasgow Warriors, and Scarlets. In the European Challenge Cup, Benetton performed well, accumulating 15 points from 4 games and topping Group 2. During these matches, they scored 147 points and conceded 87.

The Lions had their streak of consecutive wins halted in their last match against Ospreys, where they lost 36-21. Nonetheless, their victories over Sharks and Connacht were their most successful outcomes in seven games, as they suffered losses in other encounters against Montpellier, Ospreys, Bulls, and Lions. In the European Challenge Cup, the Lions finished in 4th place, securing the last seed with 10 points.

Despite both teams not performing at their peak, I still lean towards backing the Bulls in this match. With home turf advantage and being favorites to win, the Bulls have an edge. However, I expect the Lions to put up a strong fight and make the game competitive until the last moment. Nevertheless, in what promises to be a closely contested match, I find it difficult to see the Lions coming out on top in this competition.