United Rugby Championship - Dates, times and predictions for the URC quarterfinals

John Eastwood

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Last updated: 27 May 2025

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John Eastwood 27 May 2025

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Glasgow faces Stormers; Glasgow preferred due to Stormers' poor away form.
Bulls strong at home but facing a challenging game against Edinburgh.
Leinster expected to dominate Scarlets, but recent home upsets noted.
Sharks vs Munster could see an upset, with Munster's solid squad.

Leinster desperate for some silverware (Getty Images)

As we head towards the conclusion of yet another fantastic United Rugby Championship season, we take a look at the quarterfinals taking place this weekend.

The opening quarter sees Glasgow take on the Stormers on Friday night while the other three fixtures all take place on Saturday. The Bulls host Edinburgh, Leinster host the Scarlets while Munster travel to Durban to do battle with the Sharks.

Glasgow Warriors vs Stormers

Kick-Off: Friday, 30 May at 20:35 SAST

This has the makings of a fantastic clash of rugby union. Both teams enjoy moving the ball around, so if the weather plays ball, we could be in for a treat.

Of course, the Warriors are the defending champions after beating the Bulls in the final last season, however, their recent form has been suspect ahead of the knockout phase.

On the other hand, the Stormers, who won the URC title in their first season and ended as runners-up in their second, had a pretty average year, finishing fifth on the table thanks to four straight wins to end the season.

Prediction: Going by how this season has gone and history, I fancy the hosts to cover the 6.5 handicap. The Stormers away form in Europe has been poor and they've never won an away knockout game in the URC.

Bulls vs Edinburgh

Kick-Off: Saturday, 31 May at 13:30 SAST

The Bulls have had a strong home record since joining the URC and while this season they have dropped a few games at Loftus, it remains a fortress.

Edinburgh required a performance in the last round to make the top eight, and they got it, but I am not sure that's enough to see off the Bulls in Pretoria. Regardless, Edinburgh have a strong side and with it being a knockout, are capable of a big performance.

Prediction: It is tough to go against the Bulls at home, but I do feel the -17.5 handicap is steep. Edinburgh +17.5 is my best option.

Leinster vs Scarlets

Kick-Off: Saturday, 31 May at 16:00 SAST

Leinster will be desperate this year. They have dominated the URC for the last few seasons and the Champions Cup but have failed to take any silverware. Facing an upset at home is something Leinster have grown used to in recent URC knockout games.

However, of all the top eight finishers, the Scarlets are probably the best team to visit Leinster. They have performed abvoe expectations this season but shouldn't offer much threat to a very strong Leinster side.

Prediction: Leinster should be far too strong on home soil. I am backign the hosts to cover -23.5.

Sharks vs Munster

Kick-Off: Saturday, 31 May at 18:30 SAST.

This may be the game where we find the biggest chance of an upset. Munster, champions a couple of seasons ago, have struggled this time around, but they still have a good squad. Not only that, but despite their average season, Munster have still managed to achieve some big results.

Munster also have a knack for upsetting the odds away from home come the knockout stages. However, the Sharks will be up for this, particularly at home.

It has been a far better season for the Sharks in 2024/25, but inconsistency in performance has been a concern.

Prediction: If the Sharks are not at their best, I can see Munster sneaking this. Backing the visitors on +6.5 looks a great option.