Pau – 13.06.2026: At the Stade du Hameau stadium in Pau, which was packed with spectators on Saturday evening, Section Paloise and Racing 92 faced off in the decisive Barrage match of Top 14. The home team Pau finished the regular season in fourth place, while the Paris team was fifth. Both teams played to secure a spot in the semi-finals, where the leading team Stade Toulousain awaits.
The match started at a high pace. In the fifth minute, Paris playmaker Alexandre Gibert opened the scoring with a successful penalty kick from about 30 meters. Immediately afterwards, Joe Simmonds of Pau responded with a similar penalty kick to level the score at 3-3.
In the 20th minute, Racing 92 made their first significant mark: a fast attack leading to a touch through the gap by winger Viliami Habosi, who received a precise pass from Gibert. The team captain also successfully converted the try, putting the Paris team ahead 10-3.
Pau tried to regain control, but Racing’s defense remained solid. Around the 35th minute, the experienced number eight Tjiuee Uanivi scored after a charging run in the scrum, with Gibert continuing his success by converting the try. The first half ended with a clear 17-3 lead for Racing 92.
After the second half began, Pau increased the pressure. In the 50th minute, central midfielder Emiliano Gailleton scored following a break by Joe Simmonds who broke through the defense with a quick pass. Simmonds successfully converted the try, reducing the score to 17-10 and reigniting hope for the home team.
Racing 92 remained composed. In the 65th minute on a counterattack, Jérémy Spring set up team captain Ugo Seunes for the next try. Gibert extended the score to 24-10. Pau replied with another try by Gailleton at the 75th minute, cutting the gap to 24-17. However, the final points came from Gibert with a penalty kick in the 80th minute, sealing the final score at 27-17.
This victory secured Racing 92 a place in the Top 14 semi-final, where they will face the strong contender Stade Toulousain on June 19. The Paris capital team has established itself as a serious championship contender through steady form in the regular season and a convincing win in the Barrage match.
Despite the defeat, Section Paloise can still be satisfied with their season. After 26 years away from the playoffs, the Béarnais team demonstrated they are competitive at the highest level and a formidable opponent in French elite rugby.