Cheetahs' second-half collapse leads to big defeat against Stade Francais

The result leaves their hopes of reaching the play-offs hanging by a thread.

Coached and captained under the leadership of Frans Steyn, the Cheetahs struggled to contain early pressure, particularly at scrum time, where Stade Francais established control from the outset.

That dominance translated into points when scrum-half Thibaut Motassi struck early, although winger Cohen Jasper steadied matters with a penalty to keep the scoreboard moving.

Despite spending long spells without possession, the Cheetahs showed resilience and efficiency when opportunities arose.

Captain Louis van der Westhuizen powered over from a line-out maul, and Munier Hartzenberg's try shortly before half-time, both converted by Jasper, handed the South African side a narrow 17-14 lead at the interval against the run of play.

However, the second half proved costly. Stade Francais scored immediately after the restart following a charged-down kick, and the Cheetahs were unable to regain control as errors and ill-discipline crept in.

A loose ball gifted Motassi his second try, followed by further punishment through an interception and a sweeping counter-attack score, stretching the margin beyond reach.

To their credit, the Cheetahs continued to compete and were rewarded with a late try by Jandre Nel, finished after a sharp break from Hartzenberg and an offload by Prince Nkabinde.

Nevertheless, defeat in their second consecutive match means they leave Amsterdam without points and with slim prospects of advancing in the competition.