Italy vs England: Azzurri Secure Historic Six Nations Win | 2024 Updates & Reaction
ROME – In a historic upset that reverberates through the Six Nations Championship, Italy defeated England 23-18 on Saturday, securing their first-ever victory over the English in the tournament. The match, played in Rome, marks a watershed moment for Italian rugby and plunges Steve Borthwick’s England into further turmoil.
Leonardo Marin’s late try, expertly set up by Tommaso Menoncello, sealed the victory for the Azzurri, punishing England for a string of ill-disciplined plays that saw captain Maro Itoje and Sam Underhill receive yellow cards. Despite leading by eight points early in the second half, England were unable to withstand the relentless pressure from a determined Italian side.
The result is a significant blow to England’s Six Nations ambitions. Having already suffered defeats in previous rounds, this loss leaves them vulnerable and facing questions about their direction under Borthwick. The performance in Rome was a stark contrast to the seven-try victory over Italy at Allianz Stadium in 2025, a game that saw England move into second place in the table and position themselves to capitalize on any slip-ups from tournament leaders France.
Italy’s triumph is a testament to their growing competitiveness in the Six Nations. Tommaso Menoncello was a standout performer for the Azzurri, showcasing individual brilliance throughout the match. The victory completes a set of championship wins for Italy, a milestone previously elusive against England. Gonzalo Quesada’s team demonstrated composure and tactical awareness, capitalizing on England’s errors and maintaining control in crucial moments.
England’s scoring came through tries from Tommy Freeman and Tom Roebuck, but these efforts proved insufficient against a fired-up Italian team. The ill-discipline that plagued England proved costly, allowing Italy to gain territorial advantage and ultimately dictate the flow of the game. The yellow cards to Itoje and Underhill disrupted England’s rhythm and provided Italy with opportunities to build momentum.
The match began with promise for England, but Italy quickly responded with a determined display. The first half saw a closely contested battle, with both sides trading tries. However, Italy’s ability to maintain pressure and exploit England’s defensive vulnerabilities proved decisive in the second half.
This historic win for Italy comes at a time of growing optimism for the nation’s rugby program. Recent investment and a focus on developing homegrown talent are beginning to bear fruit, as evidenced by the team’s improved performances in the Six Nations. The victory over England is not just a symbolic achievement; We see a clear indication that Italy is becoming a force to be reckoned with in international rugby.
For England, the defeat raises serious concerns about their preparations for the remainder of the tournament and beyond. The loss of Ollie Lawrence to a serious Achilles tendon injury in the 2025 match against Italy further compounds their problems, potentially impacting his chances of a place on the British and Irish Lions tour. Borthwick faces a challenging task to rebuild confidence and address the team’s disciplinary issues.
The defeat in Rome will undoubtedly prompt a thorough review of England’s strategy and tactics. Questions will be asked about the team’s ability to adapt to different opponents and maintain composure under pressure. The upcoming match against Wales on at the Principality Stadium will be a crucial test of England’s resilience and their ability to respond to adversity.
The Italian victory is a landmark moment for the Six Nations, demonstrating the increasing competitiveness of the tournament and the growing strength of teams beyond the traditional powerhouses. It signals a shift in the balance of power and offers a glimpse of a more unpredictable and exciting future for the championship.
The Guardian reported that Borthwick’s recent team selection, while appearing fresher, has raised questions about its overall logic. This suggests a degree of internal uncertainty surrounding England’s approach to the tournament. The loss to Italy will only intensify scrutiny of Borthwick’s decisions and his long-term vision for the team.
Italy’s historic win is a celebration of their dedication, perseverance, and growing talent. It is a moment that will be cherished by Italian rugby fans for years to come and a clear signal that the Azzurri are ready to compete with the best in the world.