Rugby betting tips: Italy vs France predictions, preview and best bets for Six Nations clash

The latest chapter in one of rugby’s oldest rivalries is set to unfold as England and Scotland meet at Twickenham for the Calcutta Cup. Read on to find a detailed outright preview and top betting recommendations and don’t forget to take advantage of the selected betting offers listed below to maximise your betting value.

Rugby betting tips: Italy vs France Predictions for Six Nations

Can France Overcome Their Twickenham Setback and Dominate in Rome?

• Italy have not beaten France since 2013, with their last ten encounters all ending in defeat.
• France have scored ten tries in their opening two Six Nations matches, making them the tournament’s most prolific attacking side.
• Italy have scored just two tries in this year’s competition but lead in penalty attempts, with 11 shots at goal, highlighting their reliance on kicking rather than attacking creativity.

Our Best Bet

The Six Nations continues with another intriguing encounter as Italy host France at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Sunday afternoon. With both sides coming into this match off the back of contrasting results, there is plenty at stake in the Italian capital. The Azzurri, buoyed by their recent home victory over Wales, will be looking to cause another upset, while Les Bleus are determined to respond after a narrow defeat against England.

Italy’s recent form at home suggests they are becoming a tougher proposition in Rome, but their attacking limitations remain a concern. Despite their spirited 22-15 win against a struggling Welsh side, the Azzurri managed just 19 points against Scotland, many of which were handed to them rather than earned through creative play. Furthermore, the absence of Monty Ioane, one of their most dangerous backs, is a significant blow to their attacking prospects.

France, meanwhile, are looking to avoid back-to-back defeats in the competition under Fabien Galthié, something they have not done during his tenure. They dominated long periods of the match at Twickenham but were let down by handling errors and an inability to convert opportunities into points. Now, with a reshuffled side featuring Thomas Ramos at fly-half and the in-form Louis Bielle-Biarrey on the wing, they will be aiming for a more clinical performance to reassert themselves in the title race.

Although Italy held France to a draw in their last Six Nations encounter, history suggests Les Bleus have the upper hand. They have won their last ten meetings against the Azzurri, and Italy’s scoring struggles against stronger opposition make it difficult to see that trend changing. As both teams prepare for battle in Rome, all eyes will be on whether Italy can disrupt France’s rhythm or if Les Bleus will find their attacking spark once more.

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Best Bet: France To Win, Simone Gesi & Louis Bielle-Biarrey Both To Score A Try

Backing France to emerge victorious, with tries from both Simone Gesi and Louis Bielle-Biarrey, looks a strong selection for this fixture. France’s attacking firepower and Italy’s defensive vulnerabilities suggest there will be opportunities for both wingers to make an impact.

Bielle-Biarrey has been in fine form, proving himself as a lethal finisher with his ability to exploit space and beat defenders. With France’s high-tempo game plan and a strong platform from their pack, he should get ample opportunities to add to his tally. Italy, on the other hand, will need to look for inspiration out wide, and Gesi, stepping in for the injured Monty Ioane, will be eager to make his mark. His inclusion suggests the Azzurri will still look to play with width, even if their overall attacking structure remains a work in progress.

Defensively, Italy have conceded an average of 13.1 points in their last ten meetings with France, but with Les Bleus averaging five tries across their opening two fixtures, it’s likely they will exceed that figure in Rome. France’s recent struggles with discipline and handling errors may give Italy some encouragement, but ultimately, Galthié’s side should have too much firepower. Expect a competitive opening, but France’s superior squad depth and attacking efficiency should see them pull away as the match progresses.

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