Italy 23-18 England

Italy v England Match Reports

Italy celebrated their first-ever victory over England with a 23-18 win at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. England dominated the early exchanges but it was Italy who struck first when Paolo Garbisi kicked a penalty in the 21st minute. Tommy Freeman replied with a try for England before Tommaso Menoncello cut through to put the hosts back in front. Tom Roebuck scored just before half-time to give the visitors a narrow 12-10 lead at the break. Fin Smith extended England's advantage with two penalties early in the second half. Garbisi responded with two of his own to reduce the deficit to two points going into the final quarter. Italy struck the decisive blow in the 72nd minute when Leonardo Marin was put through to give the hosts a five-point lead. England pressed for a late score but the Azzurri held firm to secure a well-deserved first victory. A selection of match reports is listed below:

• Six Nations Guide: England handed historic defeat in Italy to pile pressure on Steve Borthwick
• BBC: Italy plunge England into crisis with landmark win
• Guardian: Italy claim historic first victory over England as Borthwick’s men are rattled in Rome
• Telegraph: Desperate England slump to first-ever defeat by Italy to pile pressure on Borthwick
• Sky Sports: Azzurri claim first-ever victory over England in Six Nations to pile misery on Steve Borthwick's men
• England Rugby: England edged by Italy in penultimate round of 2026 Guinness Six Nations