As the pool stages conclude, the Bulls, Stormers and Sharks keep South Africa represented in the knockout rounds following a demanding weekend across Europe.
Global (20 January 2026) – South African rugby walked away from the latest round of European action with plenty to smile about, as three of the five domestic teams booked their places in the playoff rounds across the Investec Champions Cup and the EPCR Challenge Cup.
It was a weekend that highlighted depth with the Vodacom Bulls, DHL Stormers and Hollywoodbets Sharks all finding ways to keep their continental campaigns alive and set up exciting next chapters against European opposition.
The Vodacom Bulls arguably stole the spotlight after grinding out a hard-earned away win in France to squeeze into the Investec Champions Cup Round of 16. That result not only snapped a difficult run of form, but also restored belief, with the Pretoria side now preparing for a knockout clash against Glasgow Warriors in Scotland when the competition resumes in April.
The Vodacom Bulls get it done away from home 🐂⚡#SSRugby | #InvestecChampionsCup pic.twitter.com/vD1yE2BK0o
— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) January 16, 2026
In Cape Town, the DHL Stormers reminded everyone why they are such a tough proposition at home. An incredible performance against Leicester Tigers saw them secure their place in the Champions Cup last 16, extending their strong home record in the competition. While an away trip to Toulon now awaits, the Stormers head into the knockouts with confidence.
The Hollywoodbets Sharks also delivered a statement performance, lighting up Kings Park. Although they narrowly missed out on progressing in the Champions Cup, the result ensured a place in the EPCR Challenge Cup playoffs, keeping their European journey alive.
There was disappointment for the Lions and Toyota Cheetahs, whose campaigns came to an end after narrow margins. Attention now shifts to April, where three South African sides will test themselves against some of Europe’s best in the knockout rounds.
Sources: Various Linked Above
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google.
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes and hear their incredible stories:
Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.
by 