With Italy-Scotland then England-Ireland (two matches to follow live on France 2 and france.tv from 3:15 p.m.), the show should be there in these high-stakes matches on Saturday March 12. Franceinfo: sport gives you the keys to enjoy the two matches of this penultimate day, whether you are slumped on your sofa with a tea or in a pub with a Guinness in your hand.
Italy-Scotland: the XV of the Thistle wants to find some spice
Yes, we assure you: there will be a stake in this first match, at 3:15 p.m. On the other hand, the suspense should not, a priori, be appropriate. However, we do not forget that Italy have beaten Scotland seven times since the Six Nations Tournament exists. If the Transalpins (6th with 0 points) remain on ten defeats in a row against the XV du Chardon, this reception represents the perfect opportunity to break the terrible series of six wooden spoons in a row, and 35 losses in a row in the competition. Even largely beaten on its first three outings, the Squadra Azzurra has some arguments and a small hope.
Opposite, the Scots display a very relative form. Abused by the Blues two weeks ago, Gregor Townsend’s players arrive in Rome with morale in the socks. Fourth with 5 points, they show a performance far from the status of outsiders that stuck to their skin before the Tournament, despite their victory against England in the opening. Stars Finn Russell and Stuart Hogg are on AC, and winger Duhan van der Merwe is suspended. But the Scots remain favourites. They would be well inspired, like the French, English and Irish before them, to pocket the offensive bonus thanks to this match.
England-Ireland: on the lookout for the slightest French misstep?
Nobody could disturb Eddie Jones and Andy Farrell on Friday evening: the English and Irish coaches scrupulously observed the move of the Blues to Wales. Both had a common expectation: a French debacle. But she did not arrive. Neck and neck, England (3rd with 10 points) and Ireland (2nd with 11 points) have not yet said their last word. Their clash at Twickenham, at 5.45 p.m., promises sparks. The XV de la Rose can still aim for a final victory if successful against Ireland and then against France on March 19.
Very solid at home, the XV of Clover seeks to capitalize on the outside. In London, where they have not won since 2018, the Irish will not be favorites. But the density of their pack and the experience of the stainless Jonathan Sexton, back after his absence against the Blues, will be invaluable. The opener will face a quasi-neophyte of international rugby, Marcus Smith. At 23, the number 10 of Harlequins is one of the revelations of the tournament and will pass a new big test on Saturday.