Italy Secure Deserved Six Nations Victory Over Sloppy Scotland
Italy have made a stunning start to their 2026 Six Nations campaign, defeating Scotland 18-15 in a match defined by clinical execution and resilient defence. The Azzurri capitalised ruthlessly on a series of Scottish errors to secure a richly deserved victory, their second against Scotland in three years, setting a positive tone for the tournament ahead.
Early Tries Set the Tone for Italian Triumph
Despite appallingly wet conditions in Rome, Italy adapted superbly, with fly-half Paolo Garbisi marking his 50th Test cap with an intelligent performance. Garbisi tested the Scottish defence regularly with spiralling contestable kicks and maintained accuracy off the tee. The Italian backline shone brightly, with centres Tommaso Menoncello and Juan Ignacio Brex – also celebrating his 50th cap – delivering sensational displays.
The absence of Ange Capuozzo through injury was softened significantly by the energy and skill of wing Louis Lynagh, who touched down Italy's first try following a clever grubber kick from Brex. Italy's second try showcased their attacking flair, with Lynagh claiming a garryowen from Garbisi before Menoncello finished wonderfully, hugging the touchline to sprint over. Italy led by eight points at half-time despite having only 35% possession, demonstrating their efficiency.
Scottish Inaccuracy Proves Costly
Scotland were architects of their own downfall, with set-piece failures, poor ball-handling, and ill-discipline undermining their efforts. Hooker Ewan Ashman's lineout struggles were particularly costly, including an overthrow that released Menoncello on a rampaging run early in the second half. Scotland's attempts to build momentum were repeatedly thwarted by unforced errors, with George Turner receiving a yellow card for a dangerous ruck clear-out when pressure was building.
Scotland did manage two tries, through Jack Dempsey's jinking finish and George Horne's perceptive late score, but Finn Russell's missed conversion from a difficult position left them three points adrift. A desperate 30-phase drive in the dying moments was repelled magnificently by Italy's defence, sealing a memorable victory.
Momentum Shifts in Six Nations Landscape
This result intensifies pressure on Scotland coach Gregor Townsend, whose side were outplayed in key areas. Italy, under Gonzalo Quesada, displayed smart game-management and defensive resilience to complement their attacking threats. For Scotland, this was a match they needed to win to demonstrate genuine progress, and their failure to do so raises significant questions ahead of their clash with England next Saturday.
Italy's handling and ball movement were far superior in difficult conditions, highlighting a performance built on passion, clinical execution, and collective effort. This victory provides a perfect platform for Italy's Six Nations campaign, while Scotland face an uphill battle to regain momentum.
