Lions vs Sharks Predictions - Sharks to prevail against the Lions in URC derby clash

Brad Newcomb

Editor

Last updated: 1 hour ago

Brad Newcomb 1 hour ago

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Sharks on a 3-match winning streak.
Lions have a solid record against the Sharks in recent meetings.
Sharks are predicted to cover the +1.5 handicap.

The Sharks recently defeated the Stormers back-to-back in the URC (Getty Images)

The Lions were outplayed in their last URC match but edged the Sharks earlier in the year. The Sharks have shown improvement lately, winning three in a row.

Sharks have won 3 consecutive fixtures in all competitions.
Sharks have lost 4 of their last 5 away matches in all competitions.
Sharks have won 2 of their last 4 away games against the Lions (URC)
Lions have won 2 of their last 5 matches in all competitions.
Lions have won 3 of their last 5 home games in all competitions.
Lions have won 4 of their last 5 fixtures against the Sharks (URC).

Head to Head

The Sharks have the edge with five victories to four over the Lions in nine meetings in the URC.

The Lions edged the Sharks 23-22 away at the start of 2026.

Lions Form

The Lions were thrashed by rivals the Bulls 52-17 at home in their final match before the break in the United Rugby Championship after trailing 26-3 at half-time.

The Lions have contested two other home games in the URC this season. They defeated the Scarlets 29-19 and Ulster 49-31.

The Lions are 10th in the United Rugby Championship standings with 24 points from ten matches.

The Lions will aim to bounce back into form after their lacklustre performance against the Bulls; however, they face a tricky test against the Sharks, as their opponents have found form in recent outings.

Sharks Form

The Sharks defeated the Stormers 36-24 at home in their last outing before the break in the URC fixtures after trailing 17-14 at half-time.

The Sharks have played five away matches in the United Rugby Championship this season. They lost to the Glasgow Warriors 35-19, drew 17-17 with the Dragons, lost 31-15 to Leinster, and 44-17 to Connacht before defeating the Stormers 30-19.

The Sharks are 9th on the URC table with 24 points from ten games.

The Sharks will start confidently as they look to secure all the points when they tackle the Lions after their recent back-to-back victories against the Stormers in this competition.

Team News

Lions

Forwards coach Wessel Roux recently commented on their loss to the Bulls and the quality of the Sharks pack: “On the day, we were really just not our best selves. There were technical issues and fundamental issues that we’ve discussed and worked on, but in pro rugby sometimes it just happens that you’re not your best self.

“The Sharks pack is firing quite nicely. They’re brave and creative and were dominant in both games against the Stormers. They’re a world-class pack and a world-class team.”

Sharks

Starting XV: Aphelele Fassi, Edwill van der Merwe, Francois Venter, Jurenzo Julius, Jaco Williams, Siya Masuku, Jaden Hendrikse, Thomas Dyer, Vincent Tshituka, Tino Mavesere, Jason Jenkins, Corne Rahl, Hanro Jacobs, Fez Mbatha, Phatu Ganyane

Replacements: Eduan Swart, Cameron Dawson, Vincent Koch, Emile van Heerden, Phepsi Buthelezi, Ross Braude, Jordan Hendrikse, Yaw Penxe