Last four have true champions pedigree

The star studded squads of the clubs contesting the matches in the last four at Stade Charlety and Thomond Park contain over 80 internationals from 14 different nations adding up to contests rich in both world class talent and promise.

The strictly French affair in Paris between Stade Français Paris and reigning French champions ASM Clermont Auvergne will get the prestigious European semi-final weekend underway on Friday followed by Saturday's clash between Munster and Harlequins in Limerick.

With the winner of the final, being staged at Cardiff City Stadium on Friday, 20 May, guaranteed a prized European title and automatic qualification for the 2011 / 2012 Heineken Cup tournament, there is everything to play for.

And Stade Français Paris - twice Heineken Cup finalists - are alone among the four still waiting to claim European silverware. The impressive list of honours is:

MUNSTER: Heineken Cup winners in 2006 and 2008; Heineken Cup finalists in 2000 and 2002.
ASM CLERMONT AUVERGNE: Amlin Challenge Cup winners in 1999 and 2007; Amlin Challenge Cup finalists in 2004.
HARLEQUINS: Amlin Challenge Cup winners in 2001 and 2004.
STADE FRANÇAIS PARIS: Heineken Cup finalists in 2001 and 2005.