Italy vs France Prediction & Betting Tips - Six Nations

Prediction published on 04/02/2021, 16:02  by Steve Ashfield | Modified on 04/02/2021 at 17:03 in Six Nations Prediction

The 2021 Six Nations tournament begins this weekend with England defending the title they won last year. The first match of the tournament sees Italy host France and the away side are the hot favourites to win. They are short favourites so backing them on a handicap is the best way to make a decent profit from betting on this fixture. France came second in both the Six Nations and Autumn Nations Cup last year. They only missed out on winning the Six Nations on points difference, a bit disappointing considering they beat the teams finishing first and third. They will be strong title contenders this year with their host of players never afraid to express themselves. Missing from their team will be Romain Nitamack and Virimi Vakatawa but even without them, they will have far too much for the Italians to cope with. One thing they have to improve on is their temperament. But for having a player sent off away at Scotland last year, they could easily have won not just the Six Nations but the Grand Slam too.

Italy begin another Six Nations hoping to get a win from somewhere. Chances are they won't and another wooden spoon will be added to their growing collection. The future may be a bit brighter though as they have been doing well at the under-20 level of the game. The senior squad has some good coaches on board too but the fact remains that Italy haven't won a match in the Six Nations since 2015. Last year saw them concede 178 points in six games and only score 44 themselves. Against both Wales and Scotland, they failed to score a point. With a lot of young players in their squad, it's another transitional season for them. Back France to win this on a -16 handicap.