Henry Slade delivered a clutch 79th-minute penalty to secure Exeter Chiefs a dramatic 44-41 victory over Benetton in a European Challenge Cup quarter-final classic on Saturday.
In a match featuring 10 tries and relentless momentum swings, Slade remained flawless with the boot, converting all seven of his kicks—including the decisive strike from 25 meters out. The England center's composure under pressure booked Exeter's spot in the semifinals, where they will face Ulster on May 2.
Benetton, playing without captain Michele Lamaro after his partner went into labor earlier in the day, started strongly with an early try from Niccolò Cannone. Exeter responded immediately through Olly Woodburn, setting the tone for a back-and-forth battle.
The first half saw both sides trade blows: Exeter earned a penalty try and a sin-bin against Benetton's Onisi Ratave, but the Italian side fought back with two tries from Jacob Umaga. The teams entered halftime locked at 24-24 after Umaga's long-range penalty.
"It had everything didn't it? I think it was one of those games where you almost don't want to have a loser," said Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter. "We've seen the game off in pretty dramatic style."
The second half continued at a breakneck pace. Harvey Skinner and Andrea Zambonin scored for Exeter, while Bautista Bernasconi crossed for Benetton. Umaga's second penalty gave the hosts a late lead, but Slade leveled the score with a long-range kick before sealing the win in the dying moments.
Exeter's precision in attack proved decisive despite Benetton dominating possession. Manny Feyi-Waboso showcased his finishing ability with a key try, while Slade's flawless kicking—66 points in the competition this season—ultimately made the difference.
The Chiefs now prepare for their semifinal trip to Belfast, while Montpellier will host Dragons in the other last-four matchup.