5 key battles ahead of the Racing Metro v Saracens game

Ben Arous v Du Plessis

The scrum is going to be an important factor in who will progress to the semi-finals and it will be interesting to see the head to head between Eddy Ben Arous and Petrus Du Plessis. Ben Arous has been in good form for Racing this season and the French International will look to get the better of Du Plessis at Scrum time. In what is expected to be a tight game Saracens will need a huge performance from Du Plessis at the scrum or they will be punished through the boot of Johnny Sexton.

Classen v Vunipola

Two players known for their impressive ball carrying skills go head to head on Sunday. Classen will look to get the better of Billy Vunipola who is on the back of an impressive 6 Nations campaign. Vunipola was one of England's most impressive players during the championship and he will look to bring that form into the Championship Cup this weekend. Classen has not reached the heights of his impressive performances for Castres in recent years and will need to be at his best to keep the impressive Vunipola quiet.

Sexton v Hodgson

The battle between these two will be a huge factor in deciding the outcome of the game. With Sexton returning to Leinster next season he would love finish his stay in Paris with some silverware in what would be his 4th European Cup. He goes up against the experienced Charlie Hodgson in what could be his last European game on Sunday and the former Sale man will look to guide his side to victory against a Racing side who have yet to taste defeat in this years competition.

Thomas v Ashton

Two of the most dangerous wingers in Europe go head to head on Sunday with Teddy Thomas looking to get the better of the experienced Chris Ashton. After missing most of the 6 Nations through injury Thomas will look to make up for lost time and cause Ashton plenty of problems on Sunday. However Ashton won’t be too worried as he will look to cause Thomas problems of his own as he is proving to be one of the greatest finishers in club Rugby. After scoring 11 tries in last years competition, Ashton has four so far and will look to increase his tally against Racing with Sarries looking to cause an upset.

Dulin v Goode

Two players who have been consistently good for their sides all season. Both are reliable in defence and also pose a threat in attack. It will also be interesting to see who comes out on top in the aerial battles, Goode is a bit taller than Dulin but the French International has a huge leap and will challenge with Goode for every high ball that comes between them.

Ciaran Fallon