Italy seal historic Six Nations win over England in Rome
Italy seal historic Six Nations win over England in Rome
Italy stun England 23-18 in Rome, their first-ever win over the visitors and a dramatic Six Nations twist that leaves England questioning their course.
Italy stunned England in Rome, delivering a historic 23-18 victory at the Stadio Olimpico that marked the Azzurri’s first-ever win over their visitors and completed a rare championship set for Italy. The win came with late drama and a sense of breakthrough after a challenging campaign for the visitors. Azzurri captain Paolo Garbisi put Italy ahead with methodical penalties as the hosts asserted themselves in the second half, and Leonardo Marin’s sensational finish on the left touchline sealed the deal in front of a roaring home crowd. Tommaso Menoncello was pivotal, providing the kick-start and the assist that unlocked England’s defense in the decisive periods.England had moved ahead early, building an 18-10 advantage through tries from Tommy Freeman and Tom Roebuck, complemented by Finn Smith’s boot. But the tide shifted after the break as Garbisi struck twice with his kicking, and Italy seized momentum when England were temporarily reduced to 14 men after yellow cards for Sam Underhill and Maro Itoje. Marin’s finish, delivered from a slick setup, delivered the decisive blow as Italy surged to their long-awaited triumph. The result is a serious test for England’s direction under Steve Borthwick, who looked frustrated as the match slipped from their grasp. The consequences extend beyond a single result, raising questions about England’s ability to bounce back in a campaign that had started with promise and now faces a potentially difficult stretch ahead. Italy’s victory was completed with discipline and daring in equal measure, a night that will be remembered for years in Rome’s rugby annals. It also underscored a landmark moment for Gonzalo Quesada’s side, who had already secured a historic win in the Six Nations against a renowned opponent. The Azzurri celebrated a landmark achievement as the full-time whistle echoed around the Olimpico, capping a day of high drama and a result that will reverberate through the rest of the championship.
