Six Nations, Italy mocked after dream: overtaking France in the final

A head-on defeat after even dreaming of the feat.

Italy defeated in the debut match at the Six Nations 2023. At the Olympic Stadium it was defending champion France who prevailed with the final result of 29-24. But the Azzurri, after a very difficult start, fought back and recovered. So much so that they even took the lead in the final minutes, before the mocking transalpine counter-breakthrough.

For France, the Roman afternoon seemed to start without particular headaches, as after 4 minutes Flament went in goal and Ramos converted for a 7-0 lead for the guests. Allan shortens on a spot kick, but Penaud and Ramos pack the 12-3 win for the Six Nations holders. And after another Allan square kick tries to bring Italy back into the game, Dumortier-Ramos sign the 19-6. The Azzurri, however, do not get out of the game, and thanks to Capuozzo and then Allan it goes to 14-19.

In the second half, after Ramos’ new square, Italy finds the technical goal of 21-22. Then on the hour mark Allan’s kick equals the Azzurri overtake: 24-22. The end, however, is bitter for the Olympic Stadium: Jalibert, newly thrown into the fray, scores immediately. Allan instead misses from long distance, and for Italrugby comes a defeat as honorable as it is bitter.