Free State Cheetahs vs Western Force Predictions & Tips - Cheetahs to win Toyota Challenge opener

In 2023, the Cheetahs beat the Western Force three times in four matches. Two were played in South Africa and two in Australia.

The Cheetahs come into this annual Toyota Challenge Cup as favourites once again. This year, however, they have some stiff competition with an Emerging Ireland side and an improving Western Force outfit.

The Cheetahs failed to defend their Currie Cup title from 2023, losing in the semi-final to the Lions a fortnight ago. While the Lions were always favourites, the Cheetahs certainly put in a good shift, but they couldn’t maintain their intensity in the second half.

Nevertheless, the Cheetahs are a solid side, and they are looking to build some momentum ahead of their Challenge Cup fixtures a bit later this year.

Expect a full-strength side from the Cheetahs in this encounter. They may rest players at the weekend against the Griffons before returning to their strongest side against the Emerging Ireland outfit next week.

Ethan Wentzel took a knock in the Currie Cup semi-final but the flyhalf should be ready to feature.

The Western Force were very competitive last season in this tournament, although they tend to send a young squad over. Last year, the Force managed one win of their four games against the Free State outfit.

Earlier this season, the Western Force finished 10th in Super Rugby, winning four of their 14 games. They blew a bit hot-and-cold throughout the tournament and could easily have gotten more results.

The Force last their last two games of the season to the Reds and Brumbies, but did manage victories over Fijian Drua and the Waratahs in the two weeks prior.

The Western Force squad has a good mixture of experience and youth within their ranks. Wallaby lock, Darcy Swain will make his debut for the Perth outfit.