RCT-Castres dam: three duels at the heart of the game

Let's talk seriously. Launching at 35 km/h with your only weapon of defense being your body, would you rather take Facundo Isa (1.88 m, 113 kg) or Abraham Papali'i (1.94 m, 128 kg)? Can't decide? We understand.

Throughout the season, the two Buffalos have been tormenting their opponents. The proof? In his 17 Top 14 matches (17 as a starter), Facundo Isa has broken 32 tackles and made 170 runs with the ball.

And in this area, his opposite number is even more impressive. In his 21 league matches as a starter (24 in total), seven more than the Argentinian, Abraham Papali'i has made 49 tackles and carried the ball 253 times! While the former New Zealand 13-man has played more than the Puma (31 years old, 49 caps), he is far less decisive.

Four tries in all competitions for the Castres player, while the Toulon player has scored eight. Tonight at Mayol, "Facu" will play his ^158th match wearing the lily-of-the-valley jersey.

One of the last in this tunic before his departure to Pau. As a soldier, the Argentinian will want to offer himself a lordly outing. In his image.

Wainiqolo-Baget: space devourers

Ah, Jiuta Wainiqolo… Do we really need to introduce him to you? Capable of capsizing Mayol with a burst of speed, then blasting him to pieces with his hooks in the same move, the 26-year-old Fijian, 14 caps, has earned himself a starting spot in the play-offs.

Irresistible in recent weeks, while his team was sinking, the winger has always stayed afloat. Much more reliable in defense, much more complete, less scattered and still as sparkling in attack, Jiuta Wainiqolo (1.87m and 97kg) has simply ruled the roost.

Facing him tonight, he will find another great number: Rémy Baget.

Author of twelve tries in all competitions this season, two more than the Fijian Ferrari, the Albi native is having a great season.

Returning to Tarn after six years with Aviron Bayonnais, the winger with the famous braid is a key element of the Castres attack. Fast, lively, ultra-combative and capable of winning back any ball, he will be a real threat.

Serin-Arata: Masters of Time

We often say that there is a Toulon with Baptiste Serin... and a Toulon without Baptiste Serin.

Less prominent over the last big month (like his team), the international scrum-half (31 years old, 49 caps) will play, this Saturday evening at Mayol, only the second Top 14 final phase match of his career!

Unable to set the right pace last year in the play-off lost against La Rochelle, Baptiste Serin (1.82m, 83kg) will want to lead this one with an iron fist against the CO.

To do this, he'll have to find the right balance. A clever mix between lighting fuses, taking shots, and delivering at the right pace, without overdoing it.

One thing is certain, Santiago Arata, his clone in terms of size (1.74m for 75kg) will not let him out of his sight. Starting 17 times in his 30 appearances, the Uruguayan international (28 years old, 13 caps), also capable of being very naughty coming out of the ruck, will want to weigh in on the equation... and on the destiny of this play-off.