Italy defeated in Wales: but it may have been the best Six Nations in Italian history

Under the retractable roof of the Principality Stadium in Cardiff the dream of Italy's rugby to close the Six Nations with three victories has been shattered.

In the final act of the tournament, during the usual “Super Saturday”, the team of Gonzalo Quesada succumbed to a solid and determined Wales, victorious with a decisive 31-17. For now, the hypothesis of a historic achievement of three azzurri victories is frozen. But it can be said that it was probably the best Six Nations ever played by Italy. 

Italy entered the challenge fueled by enthusiasm and expectations, the result of a convincing journey and evident growth. The azzurri's path began on February 7 at the Olimpico with a victory over Scotland (18-15), followed by a narrow defeat in Dublin against Ireland (20-13) and a wider loss in France (33-8). Then, on March 7, the symbolic turning point: the first, historic victory ever over England 23-18, which sparked debate across Europe.

However, facing them was Wales under Warren Gatland, determined to secure a heavy result at home to put behind the noise of scars and the “black streak” that had reached historic levels in 2025.

The match told two different halves. At the start, Italy controlled territory and possession, supported by an organized defensive structure, well-calibrated exit kicks, and effective collisions at the breakdowns.

When the Azzurri tried to come back relying on their most tested weapon – the first-phase attack to free the runners in channel 13 – the Welsh were extremely diligent in “closing the door”, turning defensive pressure into dangerous offensive transitions.

From there, the score slipped onto an unfavorable track for Italy: every attempt to catch up was thwarted, with the Dragons adept at capitalizing on penalty kicks and turning slow balls into opportunities thanks to a patient and meticulous game construction.

The final score of 31-17 clearly depicts the different management of key moments.

A bitter postcard for Italy, which closes the tournament with regret but also with valuable insights in view of the next cycle. The team remains in evident progress and brings home useful lessons to consolidate a growth path that, despite the stop in Cardiff, appears far from over.