Ireland Braced for Tough Italy Test in Women’s Six Nations Clash

Bemand Warns of “Incredible Challenge” as Ireland Face Italy in Parma

Ireland head coach Scott Bemand is under no illusions about the challenge his team will face when they take on Italy in the Women’s Six Nations on Sunday. With memories of last year’s 27-21 defeat to the Italians still fresh, the Irish squad is fully aware that a tough battle awaits them in Parma.

The game, set to take place at Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi, will be Ireland’s first away match of this year’s tournament, and they are looking to secure their first away victory in the competition since 2021. However, they know they must be at their very best to overcome an Italy side that has evolved into a more structured and disciplined team.

Ireland Seeking Redemption After Last Year’s Setback

Women’s Six Nations: Ireland expecting ‘incredible Italy challenge’ – Bemand –

When these two teams met in last year’s Six Nations, Ireland was in a difficult position, coming off a heavy defeat to France and at risk of finishing with the Wooden Spoon. Their loss to Italy in Dublin only deepened their troubles.

However, subsequent wins over Wales and Scotland helped Ireland climb to third place, securing qualification for the 2025 Rugby World Cup. This resurgence has given Bemand’s squad renewed confidence, but the coach insists that past results mean little when facing a team as unpredictable and dangerous as Italy.

“Italy have got a more structured version of themselves these days,” said Bemand. “It used to be quite fun watching them, as in anything could happen. Now they’ve got a little bit more sensible with what they are trying to do.”

What to Expect from Italy

Italy has traditionally been an unpredictable side, known for their flair and attacking creativity. However, according to Bemand, they have developed into a more tactical and disciplined team, making them an even greater threat.

• Expect Italy to utilize the box-kick frequently, as they have refined their tactical kicking game.
• Their defensive structure has improved, meaning Ireland will need to be clinical in attack.
• The Italian forwards are physical and aggressive, so Ireland must match their intensity in the breakdown.

Bemand emphasized the importance of sticking to Ireland’s game plan, rather than getting drawn into a scrappy contest.

“Our aim, as ever, is to get our best game out there, and if we do, we’ll be alright. But the Italians are certainly not going to roll over and make it easy for us,” he said.

Ireland’s Recent Progress Under Bemand

Since Bemand took over, Ireland has looked like a team transformed. Their autumn victories over Australia and world champions New Zealand showcased a newfound confidence, something that was missing a year ago.

Under previous coach Greg McWilliams, Ireland endured a winless 2023 Six Nations campaign, losing all five matches and finishing last. However, the shift in mindset under Bemand’s leadership has been noticeable.

“We said it after the game [against Italy last year]. You lost a game that you should have won, and in the previous Six Nations, they were losing games that they didn’t deserve to win,” he explained.

The difference now, according to the coach, is belief.

“There was a big performance step but almost without having the permission or the confidence to do it. Now they are a group that think differently.”

Key Players to Watch

Ireland

• Neve Jones (Hooker) – A key figure in Ireland’s set-piece and defensive work.
• Edel McMahon (Flanker) – Brings aggression at the breakdown and strong leadership.
• Dannah O’Brien (Fly-half) – The young playmaker’s kicking game will be crucial against Italy’s tactical approach.

Italy

• Beatrice Rigoni (Centre) – A powerful runner with an eye for the try-line.
• Giada Franco (Back Row) – Provides physicality and energy at the breakdown.
• Michela Sillari (Fly-half) – An experienced playmaker who will orchestrate Italy’s attack.

What’s at Stake for Ireland?

Women’s Six Nations: Ireland ‘in good health’ for Italy encounter –

A victory in Parma would not only avenge last year’s defeat but also reinforce Ireland’s status as one of the rising forces in women’s rugby. A loss, however, would be a setback in their quest for continued progress under Bemand.

With France and England still to come, securing a win against Italy is crucial for Ireland’s hopes of a top-three finish in the tournament.

Final Thoughts

Ireland knows what’s coming on Sunday: a disciplined, well-drilled Italian side hungry for another victory. But with their newfound belief and improved performances, Bemand’s team is more prepared than ever to meet the challenge.

Can Ireland end their away drought in the Women’s Six Nations, or will Italy once again prove to be their stumbling block? One thing’s for sure: it won’t be easy.