Ulster prop Tom O'Toole emphasizes the importance of not underestimating Zebre as they prepare for their European Challenge Cup opener on Saturday at Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi in Parma (15:15 BST). Despite Zebre's struggles in the United Rugby Championship (URC), having lost their first three games and enduring a 19-game losing streak, O'Toole recalls a previous upset where Zebre defeated Ulster 15-14 in January 2025.

O'Toole stated, "It's kind of weird having a European game so early in the calendar but it's nice to park the URC for a week and obviously we know Zebre quite well. They upset us here a couple of years ago so we realize how dangerous they can be."

Ulster, under coach Richie Murphy, has drawn two and lost one of their opening three URC matches this season. Their latest outing saw them come back from a 21-point deficit against Munster to secure a 26-26 draw.

Key points from O'Toole's insights include:

• Zebre's physicality and pride when playing at home.
• Tight scores in Zebre's recent matches, indicating challenges ahead.
• The need for Ulster to improve discipline, particularly from set-pieces.

Looking ahead, O'Toole aims to secure a spot in Andy Farrell's Ireland squad for the upcoming Nations Championship in November, where they will face Argentina, Fiji, and South Africa.

After the match against Zebre, Ulster will continue their Challenge Cup campaign against Bayonne on 12 December at Affidea Stadium.