By Kasey Rees
Wales face Italy in Rome this weekend – looking for their first win after a difficult start to the Guinness Six Nations Championship.
The match at Stadio Olimpico will be important for both teams, as Italy will be aiming to win back-to-back matches against Wales for the first time in their history.
Italy have proven in recent matches against Wales that they are no pushovers after securing two victories in the last three matches.
✍️ @PeterRyanSports takes a look at the odds as Wales travel to Rome tomorrow, looking to avoid their 14th straight loss…#GuinnessM6N | #ITAvWALhttps://t.co/fhffe97rL3
— The Rugby Paper (@TheRugbyPaper) February 7, 2025
The Azzurri have certainly stepped up their game with talented players throughout their line-up. Here are three dangermen Will need to keep in check.
Ange Capuozzo
The Toulouse full-back made his Six Nations debut in 2022 against Scotland at the Stadio Olympico and instantly made an impact scoring two tries in 35 minutes of play.
The 25-year-old put on an electrifying performance against Wales three years ago, his brilliant run setting up the try of the tournament to seize victory.
He was named breakthrough player of the year in 2022, and since returning from injury he has been in terrific form for Toulouse this season.
The winger showed amazing speed and agility to score from long range against Leicester Tigers.
He has 23 caps for Italy.
Match Stats – Round one v Scotland
Ball carries: 6
Tackles: 9
Kicks: 2
Caps: 22
Juan Ignacio Brex
The Bennetton centre made his Six Nations debut in 2023 against Scotland when he showcased his talent as a player with ability to compete at international level.
The 31-year-old is a heavy tackler and certainly will be one to watch against Wales.
In his last match against Wales a year ago, he made eight ball carries, 18 tackles, had success in 12, and made one turnover in the 80 minutes he played.
He has started in 80% of matches for Toulouse this season, scoring one try, and has 41 caps for Italy.
Brex scored in the opening round against Scotland after an intercept of a pass from Finn Russell.
He is definitely one that Warren Gatland and co should keep an eye on in.
Match stats against Scotland
Played the full 80 minutes.
Tries: 1
Ball Carries: 3
Kicks: 2,
Tackles: 16
Tommaso Allan
The 31-year-old fly-half for Perpignan can create chances from nothing. He puts defenses under pressure and has an all-round game that makes him difficult to subdue.
This season for his club he has started 10 out of 12 matches, whilst he now has 81 caps for Italy and has scored over 500 points in Test rugby, making him their second highest scorer of all time.
So far, Allan is second in player points rankings for this year’s Six Nations with 14 points.
He has a 100% goal kicking accuracy and will be dangerous if Wales give him the chance to land penalties.
Match stats against Scotland
Played 80 minutes against Scotland, scoring 14 points.
Ball carries: 4,
Penalties: 4
Conversions: 1
Tackles: 3
