Racing 92 Defy Odds in 14-Man Heroics: 11-Try Epic Seals Challenge Cup Semi-Final Berth

A red card, 11 tries, and late drama – Racing 92 scripted one of the most remarkable comebacks in Challenge Cup history to eliminate Connacht in a 43-40 thriller at Dexcom Stadium.

First Half Frenzy: Red Card & Try Avalanche

• 3rd minute: Bundee Aki sliced through Racing's defense for Connacht's opener.
• 14th minute: Game-changer – Wame Naituvi saw red for a dangerous tackle on Finn Treacy, awarding Connacht a penalty try (21-7).
• 8 tries in 40 minutes: Racing's Diego Escobar (23') and Nolann Le Garrec (25') countered before Cian Prendergast's brace (10', 30') kept Connacht ahead 28-24 at HT.

Second Half Resurgence

• Le Garrec's masterclass: The scrum-half scored his second try (45') and slotted 2 penalties (55', 65') to put Racing ahead.
• Farrell's ice-cool intervention: The England star nailed a 45th-minute drop goal and absorbed late pressure despite a yellow card for a no-arms tackle.
• Late drama: Connacht's Ben Murphy (73') and Cathal Forde (78') crossed to set up a grandstand finish, but Racing's defense held firm.

"When you play 66 minutes with 14 men in Europe, it takes something special. This group never stops believing." – Racing 92 coach Laurent Travers

Key Stats:

• Le Garrec: 19 points (2 tries, 3/4 kicks)
• Carries won: Racing 92 (62%) vs Connacht (38%)
• Turnovers forced: 9 by Racing's pack

Semi-Final Setup

Racing 92 advance to face Lyon on May 4th, keeping their first European trophy since 2016 within reach. Connacht's European dream ends despite scoring six tries – a cruel reminder of rugby's fine margins.