Italy 18-15 Scotland Guinness Men’s Six Nations, Round 1 – Stadio Olimpico, February 7, 2026
In a match played in biblical downpours that turned the Eternal City pitch into a quagmire, Italy delivered a statement win to kick off their 2026 Six Nations campaign, grinding out an 18-15 victory over a error-prone Scotland side. The Azzurri’s heroic late defence sealed a richly deserved triumph – their first opening-round success since 2013 – and reclaimed the Cuttitta Cup in the process.
Scotland’s tournament got off to the worst possible start as they slipped to defeat for the second time in three visits to Rome, piling early pressure on head coach Gregor Townsend. The visitors’ campaign now hangs in the balance ahead of next weekend’s Calcutta Cup clash with England.
The game was barely eight minutes old when Italy struck first. Winger Louis Lynagh crossed in the corner after a sharp move involving scrum-half Alessandro Fusco’s deceptive pass and a grubber from centre Juan Ignacio Brex. Lynagh was at it again shortly after, claiming a high ball and offloading for Tommaso Menoncello to crash over. Paolo Garbisi, marking his 50th cap, converted to make it 12-0.
Scotland responded with a moment of quality before the break, No 8 Jack Dempsey jinking through for a try that Finn Russell converted to narrow the gap to 15-7 at half-time.
The second period saw Scotland fight back valiantly. Replacement scrum-half George Horne darted over from a close-range drive to make it 18-15 after Russell’s penalty. But in the wet conditions, Scotland’s set-piece faltered badly – hooker Ewan Ashman overthrew lineouts at crucial moments – while ill-discipline, including a yellow card for George Turner, handed Italy breathing space.
The drama built to a fever pitch in the closing stages. Scotland launched a monumental 30-phase assault deep in Italian territory after the hooter, but the Azzurri’s rearguard stood firm. Max Williamson was held up over the line in the dying seconds, allowing Italy to celebrate a famous victory.
Garbisi’s accurate boot – a conversion and two penalties – proved decisive, while the home side’s superior handling and game management in the deluge shone through. Michele Lamaro’s forwards and the midfield duo of Brex and Menoncello were outstanding.
For Scotland, Dempsey and Horne offered flickers of hope, but unforced errors, poor lineout execution and inability to adapt fully to the conditions cost them dearly. Townsend admitted post-match it was “hugely disappointing”, yet insisted his side’s effort would fuel a response.
Italy coach Gonzalo Quesada hailed his players’ character and execution, a sign this improving Azzurri outfit could challenge the wooden spoon narrative once more.
Scorers: Italy – Tries: Lynagh, Menoncello; Con: Garbisi; Pens: Garbisi 2. Scotland – Tries: Dempsey, Horne; Con: Russell; Pen: Russell.
Italy’s dream start contrasts sharply with Scotland’s nightmare opener. The championship is already wide open – but for the Scots, the road to redemption starts now.
