This Saturday 25 May, at 6pm in the Josy Barthel stadium, Luxembourg's rugby team host their biggest game in recent history at the final game in the old stadium.

After an impressive campaign finishing top in the Rugby Europe Conference B, Luxembourg now faces the winner of Conference C, Moldova, in a play-off final to see who reaches the Rugby Trophy—a high-level competition that includes teams such as Poland, Sweden, Czech Republic, Croatia, and Lithuania.

Convincing victories over Bosnia, Austria and Slovenia coupled with a hard-fought triumph over Hungary that showcased immense grit and determination as they came from behind to win, has sparked a sense of optimism surrounding the Red Lions. A mix of experienced heads with some exciting young talent has put the group in good stead to take on a bigger challenge, clearly capable of performing at a higher level than the one they find themselves in. There is an array of talent throughout the spine of the team that has already played at a higher level and they are ready to take the step up once again.

However, it will be no easy task as they face a physical Moldovan side with plenty of power and a yearning to return to a division to which they were once regular members. Having also coasted through their group containing Bulgaria, Serbia and Turkey they will be coming into the game with equal confidence. Their play relies heavily on their forward pack dominating set-pieces, which Luxembourg will look to counter by disrupting them, in order to gain a foothold in the game. The last time both these teams faced off was in 2019, where Luxembourg came out with the bragging rights as they won 23-10. The match is poised to be a thrilling encounter, as two determined sides battle it out head-to-head for a place they both rightfully deserve.

Coach Benedetti shared his thoughts on the upcoming match, saying: 'We are impatient to come together and play this match because we have worked very well up until now and it is important to spend time together to go and achieve something more. This game is a final that brings a successful season to a close, it will be a difficult match as we know the Moldovans are big, with a different playing style to ourselves so there will be a big battle between styles but I think we will be able to oppose their strength and speed.'

RTL

© FLR Facebook

It will also be a goodbye to a legendary stadium in the Grand-Duchy, the Josy Barthel, that will be playing host to its final game of rugby ever. The step up from playing in the Cessange bog to the stadium marked a significant shift in the right direction for the FLR (Fédération Luxembourgeoise de Rugby) and with the next move to the Stade de Luxembourg, the sport once again seems to be propelling forward.

It’s a great day for all the family with adults having to pay 20€ for entry and kids under the age of 16 are free! Introduce the young ones to a new sport or just go for some beers with friends and a true, physical spectacle accompanied by plenty of skill will hopefully be on show.

Get your tickets at the door!