The remaining English interest in Europe may be confined to the European Challenge Cup, but this weekend should see some excellent Rugby across both the Champions and Challenge Cups.

With the prospect of a big final occasion and silverware in sight, it’s all to play for in both competitions.

European Challenge Cup Predictions

Gloucester v Newcastle
At least the Aviva Premiership is guaranteed a representative in the final, as these two English teams do battle at Kingsholm. Winning this tournament would deliver a Champions Cup place for next season, and that might appeal more to Gloucester at the moment. Newcastle are fighting for a top four place, with Champions Cup qualification looking likely already, and that’s likely to be a focus. The Falcons won by a point there in March, but Kingsholm is a tough place to win even when you are going all out for victory. Gloucester by 7

Cardiff v Pau
These two teams were in the same group in the 2016/17 Challenge Cup tournament, with Cardiff winning both home and away. Add to that the usual assumption that the French team hates to travel, and you have to go for a Blues win. Cardiff by 13

European Champions Cup Predictions

Leinster v Scarlets
If this were being played at a truly neutral venue, I’d be more inclined to pick the Scarlets, but the Aviva Stadium in Dublin will surely hand an advantage to Leinster. The Irish side beat the Scarlets in Dublin in February and then managed a draw away from home a few weeks later, with both results helping to erase the memories of defeat in the Pro12 semi-final last season. I think the home side will win this. Leinster by 9

Munster v Racing
These two teams are familiar foes this season, having shared a group, and that should give Munster some confidence going to France. Both group stage games were won by the home team, but Munster have beaten Racing in four of the last five meetings between the teams. Racing surprised me with an impressive performance to win at Clermont, whilst Munster were somewhat fortunate to edge past Toulon, and instinct says it will be Racing to progress to the final. Racing by 2

How do you see the games unfolding this weekend?