Italy, a capital challenge. There is Wales: looking for a turning point to chase away the risk of the Wooden Spoon

Second day of 6 Nations 2025 and we are already talking about decisive matches. The question may seem premature, however it is undeniable that the challenge between Italy and Wales scheduled for today at 15.15pm at the Olimpico, has all the characteristics to be a decisive turning point, fundamental to avoid the now very famous Wooden Spoon, a burden placed on those who come last in the Tournament.

After two consecutive victories in Cardiff (in 2022 and 2024), Italy should be the favourites on paper playing at home, were it not for the fact that the Dragons have not been defeated in Rome since 2007 and the final series of three thrilling matches played last year (draw with France, success against Scotland and Wales) should be considered water under the bridge.

Last Saturday's defeat in Edinburgh has opened some cracks in the morale and certainties of the Azzurri. Above all, doubts are being raised by the organization of the game and the many naivety committed by the players, even those considered above suspicion, see the three-quarter line. If Italy wants to confirm that they are no longer the Cinderella of the group, they must beat Wales with the Dragons coming from a disheartening series of consecutive defeats (13) and their magician-coach Gatland has not yet managed to rebuild a competitive team, at least in terms of the game. The Italian coach Gonzalo Quesada knows this aspect well and, probably, precisely to avoid destabilizing the certainties of the group, he has decided to confirm the 15 who took to the field against Scotland. The only tactical variation is the entry of Niccolò Cannone as a strong second line in place of Dino Lamb, who is still present on the bench where the substitution of Jacopo Trulla in place of Gesi is noteworthy. In any case, it is better to hope that our two wingers Capuozzo and Ioanne play more balls than last time. The match will be broadcast on Sky Sport Uno and Rai 2 free-to-air.

The formations.

Italy: Allan, Capuozzo, Brex, Menoncello, Ioane, Garbisi, Page-Relo, Cannone, Lamaro, Negri, Ruzza, Cannone, Ferrari, Nicotera, Fischetti. Wales: Williams L., Rogers, Tompkins, James, Adams, Thomas B., Williams T., Thomas G., Thomas H., Rowlands, Jenkins, Botham, Morgan, Faletau.

Other matches. Today England - France (17,15 Sky Sport Uno). Tomorrow: Scotland - Ireland (16 Sky Sport Max)

Ranking: France, Scotland and Ireland 5; Ireland 1; Italy and Wales 0.