Clash of the Latins: France vs. Italy in the Six Nations
This Sunday, at 4 PM at the Stadio Olimpico, the French XV will face off against Italy on the third matchday of the Six Nations Tournament. For the occasion, the renowned Argentine coach of the Italian national team, Gonzalo Quesada, has crafted a team composition that follows the tradition of the previous two.
There are two key changes to the starting XV compared to the victory against Wales two weeks ago: the dynamic Italian winger Monty Ioane will be replaced by the rising star Simone Gesi on the left wing. Gianmarco Lucchesi, a strong and experienced hooker, will take the place of Nicotera.
As expected, there will be a strong French presence on the pitch this Sunday, with six players from the Top 14 gracing the Italian side. Nicotera (Stade Français) will be on the bench, while Page-Relo (Lyon) and Garbisi (Toulon) will form the half-back partnership. The elusive Capuozzo (Toulouse) will start on the right wing, and Allan (Perpignan) will be the fullback.
Breaking Down the Italian Team:
15. Allan: The Perpignan fullback is known for his agility, speed, and attacking prowess. He will be a threat to the French defense with his ability to break through lines and create scoring opportunities.
14. Capuozzo: The Toulouse winger has been one of the breakout stars of the Six Nations so far. His blistering pace, quick footwork, and lethal finishing make him a constant danger to opposition defenses.
13. Brex: The Benetton center is a physical and powerful runner with a strong work rate. He will be tasked with providing a strong defensive presence and creating space for his teammates in attack.
12. Menoncello: The Zebre center is a clever and experienced playmaker. His vision, passing skills, and ability to read the game will be crucial for Italy’s attacking strategy.
11. Gesi: The young and talented left winger will make his starting debut for Italy. His speed, agility, and attacking instincts will add dynamism and unpredictability to the Italian backline.
10. P. Garbisi: The Toulon fly-half is one of the most exciting young players in European rugby. His pinpoint kicking, quick decision-making, and ability to create something out of nothing will be key for Italy’s hopes of victory.
9. Page-Relo: The Lyon scrum-half is a dynamic and explosive player who likes to keep defenses on their toes. His quick service and ability to break through gaps will be crucial for Italy’s attacking flow.
7. Lamaro (Captain): The Benetton flanker is the heart and soul of the Italian team. His leadership, physicality, and work rate will inspire his teammates to perform at their best.
8. L. Cannone: The Zebre number eight is a powerful and athletic ball carrier. His ability to make hard yards and create quick rucks will be vital for Italy’s forward pack.
6. Negri: The Benetton flanker is a tireless worker who excels in the breakdown. His ability to steal possession and disrupt the French rhythm will be crucial for Italy’s defensive efforts.
5. Ruzza: The Benetton lock is a physical and abrasive presence in the second row. His strength in the scrum and ability to disrupt lineouts will be key for Italy’s set-piece dominance.
4. N. Cannone: The Zebre lock is a powerful and dynamic runner with a high work rate. His ability to carry the ball over the gain line and create momentum will be important for Italy’s attacking game.
3. Ferrari: The Benetton prop is a strong and experienced tighthead. His scrummaging ability and ability to hold his ground in the set-piece will be crucial for Italy’s forward pack.
2. Lucchesi: The Zebre hooker will start in place of Nicotera. He is a reliable lineout thrower and a solid performer in the scrum.
1. Fischetti: The Benetton loosehead prop is a powerful and experienced scrummager. His ability to generate power in the set-piece will be crucial for Italy’s platform in attack.
This clash between France and Italy promises to be a thrilling encounter with plenty of passion and intensity. The French will be looking to continue their winning streak, while Italy will be hungry to make a statement and pull off an upset. The presence of so many French players in the Italian team adds an extra element of intrigue to this "Latin derby."
