Early leaders Ireland are in an unusual position heading into Sunday’s second round clash with Italy at the Aviva Stadium, the reigning champions’ first home game in the 2024 Six Nations. I notice that there is.
No team has ever won back-to-back Grand Slam titles, but Andy Farrell’s side now have a better chance of achieving the feat after chasing favorites France ahead of the tournament. Can they maintain that high standard for the next four seemingly easy games?
But it’s worth remembering that Italy gave Ireland one of the biggest scares in last year’s tournament, falling behind early on and then mounting a brilliant fightback from the brink.
Judging by how Gonzalo Quesada’s side fared against England last weekend, they may be far fewer than many expect. They won by 3-2 tries, but had Tommaso Allan been able to convert a late penalty they could have caused an upset.
The pressure of expectations on Ireland was never greater than with their towering lock Joe McCarthy stealing the show on his debut, but any other team would do anything to put themselves in their place. wax
How to watch Ireland VS Italy live stream for free on ITVX
| UK stream: ITVX (free) |
| US stream: peacock tv |
| Australian streams: stun sports |
What time is kickoff?
Ireland vs. Italy kick-off is Sunday, February 11th at 3pm GMT / 10am ET / 7am PT. In Australia, it’s 2am AEDT on Monday 12 February.
Ireland vs Italy venue
Sunday’s match will be held at Dublin’s 51,711-seat Aviva Stadium (still known to many fans by its predecessor, Lansdowne Road), with its famously low North Stand.
More team news follows.