Italy vs Ireland Prediction & Betting Tips - Six Nations

Prediction published on 25/02/2021, 15:17  by Steve Ashfield | Modified on 25/02/2021 at 16:17 in Six Nations Prediction

Few would have expected this Six Nations game to be played between the bottom two in the table. Italy we of course expected to be bottom but Ireland find themselves fifth after two losses. The Irish side began the 2021 Six Nations with a 21-16 defeat away to Wales. It was a match they could possibly have won but for having Peter Mahoney sent off. They followed that disappointing start with another defeat, this time losing 15-13 at home to France. That was the first time in the Six Nations that Ireland (who finished third last year) have lost their first two games of the campaign. They will of course be expecting to return from Italy with a win and a bonus point. Ireland have made seven changes from the team that lost to France. That includes captain Johnny Sexton making his return. Ireland have won their last ten internationals against Italy. They last lost to Italy in 2013 and that's the only win the Italians have had over the Irish this century.

Italy are in their usual postion in this competition after also losing their first two games. They have already conceded 91 points, 51 more than any other team. Their opening game saw them lose 50-10 at home to France. Then they suffered yet another Six Nations loss, going down 41-18 to England at Twickenham. They have a full strength squad to choose from for this game but another defeat looms for them. Their main task is to show they belong in this championship with many calling for them not to be. Ireland have no wins but could have won those two opening games. Go for Ireland to win on a -15.5 handicap.