Italy, after two victories against Namibia and Uruguay, continues its crazy bet to reach the quarter-finals of the Rugby World Cup, Friday September 29, in Lyon, by facing New Zealand, a week before facing France. In the event of a defeat, the All Blacks would be eliminated after their setback against the Blues (27-13) in the opening match. Follow the meeting in our livestream.
Significant returns on the New Zealand side. Triple world champions, the All Blacks find colors and certain major players. Injured and out of action since the start of the tournament, third row Shannon Frizell and center Jordie Barrett are present for the first time in the starting XV. The Blacks also have their captain Sam Cane back on the bench.
Italians still undefeated in this World Cup. For the moment, the Squadra Azzurra is having an ideal start to the competition. Against the two weakest opponents in the group, Namibia and Uruguay, the Transalpines were a hit and won two improved victories thanks to twelve tries scored. But the Azzurri who have never managed to obtain the New Zealand scalp in fifteen confrontations.
The race for the quarter-finals is very open. The two evening opponents can still dream of the final draw. Third in Pool A at kick-off, the New Zealanders can join the Italians in second qualifying place in the event of an improved success. Ange Capuozzo’s teammates can strike a big blow and validate a historic ticket for the quarters.