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Toulouse crush Sale to avoid Champions Cup shock exit

BBC Sport •
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Toulouse delivered a ruthless Investec Champions Cup performance, crushing Sale Sharks 77-7 to secure their knockout place. The French giants scored 11 tries, inflicting Sale's record defeat and surpassing their previous worst loss by 12 points. Victory was essential for the six-time champions after recent away losses.

Sale, already qualified, rested key players like George Ford and Tom Curry. The Premiership side's weakened lineup couldn't contain Toulouse's attacking flair, which was missing in their recent poor conditions. The result saw Sale drop from a home last-16 spot, while Toulouse reclaimed control of their knockout destiny.

The match showcased Toulouse's returning strength, with Antoine Dupont scoring twice after his long-term injury. If Saracens lose to Glasgow, Toulouse finish second and earn a home last-16 tie. Sale now needs a positive result against Glasgow to improve their seeding for the knockout stages.