Dragons opened their United Rugby Championship campaign with a 21-21 draw against Benetton after a dramatic final moment saw Tinus de Beer's conversion attempt hit the post in the 80th minute. The match was Benetton's first under new coach Wayne Pivac, the former Wales head coach, and saw Dragons mount a strong second-half comeback after trailing 19-7 at the interval. Both sides will view the result differently: Benetton unable to convert their first-half dominance into victory, Dragons unable to complete a spirited comeback that showcased improved form.

Benetton's first-half tries came from centre François Mey, hooker Bautista Bernasconi, and wing Ignacio Mendy, with Jacob Umaga converting two. Dragons' second-half resurgence saw tries from Tinus de Beer, Tongan centre Fine Inisi, and hooker Elliot Dee, also with De Beer converting two. Dragons finished 15th in the previous season despite improved performances, and this draw continues a recurring pattern—they shared the spoils four times last season; they now face five consecutive home fixtures in Wales, beginning with back-to-back derbies against Scarlets and Ospreys.