Following the 2025 tournament's launch - for which there was an official captains' photoshoot in front of the Colosseum - attention now turns to the Stadio Olimpico. Here, the Azzurri will face Wales in the opening match of the second round of this prestigious rugby competition.
Coach Gonzalo Quesada's men, coming off a 31-19 defeat to Scotland in Edinburgh, are gearing up for the first of their three home fixtures. The sale of over 150,000 tickets for these matches in the capital underscores the warmth, affection, and enthusiasm for our national team.
Despite the initial setback, the game against Scotland showcased some encouraging signs for the Azzurri. Italy's response after a challenging start was commendable. Trailing by 14 points in the early minutes, the team clawed back to level at 19-19, thanks in part to Tommaso Allan's accurate kicking and Juan Ignacio Brex's intercept try, a result of relentless defensive pressure.
This comeback highlights a resilience and determination that will be crucial against Wales, a match that will present a different psychological challenge.
In tight play, the Azzurri demonstrated great combativeness and solidity, executing a high number of tackles (212 in total), many of which were dominant. Challenges arose mainly in wide defence, where they were often caught off guard, both in initial phases and during broken and multi-phase play, leading to positioning errors and missed tackles (they had an overall success rate of 87.6%).
Maintaining high defensive concentration is essential, and in attack, capitalising on created opportunities is vital. The Azzurri have consistently generated chances but have struggled recently to convert them.
When the team takes risks and moves the ball while respecting field zones, their offensive potential becomes evident (it was notable that the quality of ball received by players like wingers Monty Ioane and Ange Capuozzo against Scotland was low).
The forwards' role is crucial: they must take responsibility in providing quality balls and gaining ground, as well as being more effective at the breakdown, which was too often slowed by the Highlanders.
The maul has shown organisation but lacks incisiveness and momentum to be more decisive and put the team on the front foot. There are weapons yet to be fully utilized and refined, but the Azzurri have great potential in these areas.
On the other side, Wales arrive in Rome with a team in transition, following a heavy 43-0 defeat to France, extending their losing streak to 13 consecutive matches.
After the retirement of some stalwarts, the new era focuses on a mix of young talents, led by the determined captain Jac Morgan, one of the standouts in the match against the French.
Eager to change their fortunes, the Dragons will bring significant physicality and competitive spirit.
Particular attention must be paid to tactical and aerial play, where the Welsh might aim to challenge the Azzurri.
The pressure surrounding this match is palpable for both sides. Statements from numerous emblematic figures in Welsh rugby highlight how the clash against Italy is among the most crucial in recent years, especially considering the repercussions a defeat could entail.
The challenge is set. The Stadio Olimpico is gearing up for an extraordinary atmosphere, with Italian fans ready to support the Azzurri, while the red jerseys in the crowd will undoubtedly make their passionate presence felt.
Leonardo Ghiraldini played for his country 107 times, captaining them on 17 occasions before eventually calling time on his career in 2021. He started 47 games for Italy in the Championship - only Ireland's Rory Best (55) has started more games..
Italy v Wales, Saturday 8th February, 14:15 GMT, Stadio Olimpico.
