The short side: Champions Cup quarter-finalists decided, English number eight battle and pressure on Springbok

Ulster welcome the defending European champions to Belfast for the second leg of this last-16 tie in the Champions Cup with a six-point advantage after claiming a 26-20 win over 14-man Toulouse in France.

It is the first time in the competition’s history that a two-leg format is in play, and this tie is a perfect example of the value of the new structure. Despite losing the first match, Toulouse are still in the fight and will be looking to respond this weekend.

However, Ulster are in an excellent position to dethrone last season’s winners by using their home advantage on Saturday.

Robert Baloucoune was the hero last time out and will be looking to add to his tally at Kingspan Stadium, whilst number eight Duane Vermeulen has expressed his desire to lift the trophy with Ulster.

Michael Lowry is also a player to watch as he leads the competition in line breaks and has been in sparkling form of late.

Toulouse are sweating on superstar Antoine Dupont‘s fitness, who missed training earlier this week. But, of course, any side would feel Dupont’s absence as he has held the mantle of the world’s best player with great passion and skill.

However, Toulouse did exceptionally well last time out to lose by a small deficit despite playing the game with 14-men due to an 11th-minute red card for wing Juan Cruz Mallia.

That will give the champions confidence going into this fixture. Fly-half Romain Ntamack will be desperate to show his flair and playmaking ability if the Toulouse forward pack can give him the platform.

Le Rouge et Noir are a side that has a rich history in the Champions Cup and will not be panicked by the narrow margin they need to make up. Instead, they will go to Ulster expecting to dominate the game and play the home