The Irish province secured a spot in the last four of the Heineken Champions Cup for a 12th time after a commanding 34-22 win over defending champions Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park on Saturday afternoon.

And La Rochelle were just as impressive, putting away Sale Sharks 45-21 with a devastating second half display that earnt them a first Heineken Champions Cup semi-final spot.

That was a performance that impressed Cullen, who admitted it will be huge challenge to win in France.

“Their win on Saturday against a very good Sale side was impressive and we have a big three weeks of preparation ahead of us now,” Cullen said.

“Obviously Ronan and Jono, two men we know very well, have been building a great side there and it will be a huge challenge going there and winning in France.

“But this is where we want to be, competing against the very best sides in Europe, and we very much look forward to the challenge of the coming three weeks and building towards that game.”

Cullen also issued an injury update and was hopeful that several of his international stars will be back for the last four clash.

“The biggest thing is we’re trying to take care of all the guys,” he added. “We just have to make sure we look after them in the right manner.”

“I can’t speak specifically but generally hopefully a good chunk of the guys who are injured will be back for our next game.”

Leinster Rugby head coach Leo Cullen has said he is “looking forward to the challenge” of facing La Rochelle at the Stade Marcel Deflandre in their Heineken Champions Cup semi-final.