Italy vs England Preview & Prediction | 2026 Six Nations Championship | Round 4
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England travel to Rome hoping to break a two-match losing streak and restore some pride to their 2026 Six Nations campaign.
Start date/time:
How to watch on TV: UK – BBC / ITV / & Premier Sports / USA – Not televised
How to watch online: UK – BBC’s digital platforms / ITVX / & Premier Player / USA – Peacock
Italy form: Faltering attack
After beating Scotland in their Six Nations opener, excitement in the Italy camps has dulled somewhat after defeats to both Ireland and France.
Although the Azzurri have been fairly sturdy in defence, they simply aren't creating enough opportunities in the attacking areas, with no side having scored fewer points than them at this stage of the competition.
Last five: LWWLL
England form: Back-to-back losses
Poor starts have cost England in their last two contests, resulting in defeats to Scotland and Ireland as their title hopes were extinguished.
The record 42-21 defeat to Ireland two weeks ago was particularly damning, and there are serious questions being asked now about Steve Borthwick's side ahead of next year's World Cup.
Last five: WWWLL
Italy team news: Backline alterations
Squad: Pani, Lynagh, Brex, Menoncello, Ioane, Garbisi, Garbisi, Fischetti, Nicotera, Ferrari, Cannone, Zambonin, Lamaro, Zuliani, Cannone
Replacements: Di Bartolomeo, Spagnolo, Hasa, Ruzza, Favretto, Fusco, Marin, Allan
England team news: Multiple changes from Ireland defeat
Squad: Daly; Roebuck, Freeman, Atkinson, Murley; F Smith, Spencer; Genge, George, Heyes, Itoje (capt), Coles, Pepper, Curry, Earl
Replacements: Cowan-Dickie, Rodd, Davison, Chessum, Underhill, Pollock, Van Poortvliet, M Smith
Italy vs England prediction
England have now lost consecutive international matches for the first time since 2024, but a third straight defeat at the hands of Italy is surely unthinkable.
History is certainly not on the side of the hosts, as in 32 attempts dating back to 1991, they have never tasted victory over England.
However, there have been flashes of brilliance from the Azzurri, and they may back themselves to cause an upset against an English team who have had the wind knocked out of them.
The hosts have shown some good defensive resolve in this tournament, and could well restrict England to a low-scoring game, even if they do ultimately end up on the losing side.
Italy vs England tip: Under 48.5 points
