Three years later, the sting of defeat still lingers for the Wallabies. The unexpected loss to Italy in 2022 serves as a harsh reminder to the Australian team: complacency can be a costly mistake. This weekend's match against the Azzurri in Udine is a chance for redemption, but the Wallabies know they can't afford to underestimate their opponents.
Back in 2022, in Florence, Italy stunned Australia with a score of 28-27. This defeat had significant consequences, contributing to the eventual dismissal of then-Wallabies coach Dave Rennie.
Among those who experienced that painful loss was prop Taniela Tupou. Though he jokes about his memory, admitting he doesn't recall the details of the match, he clearly remembers the result. "I can’t remember what I did yesterday, never mind in that game, but I know we lost," Tupou stated. He emphasizes the importance of learning from past mistakes. "It’s a lesson for us to learn going into this game and not taking it lightly. They’re a good team and you can see what they’ve done against South Africa and the Six Nations against England." He hopes the team will avoid a repeat of that disappointment this week and secure a decisive victory.
Considering the Wallabies' recent performance, particularly their 25-7 loss to England on Sunday morning (AEDT), they can't simply expect an easy win, regardless of their opponent. Tupou acknowledges the challenge, stating, "We’ll treat Italy just like England and Ireland and France." He, who was one of Australia’s better performers in the loss to England, knows Italy won't be an easy team to beat. "They’re not easy to beat, so it’s a must-win for us, so I’m expecting a full-strength Wallabies team this week.”
The team has received a boost with the return of key players, including star centre Len Ikitau and forward Tom Hooper. Both play for the English club Exeter and were unavailable for the previous two Tests against England and Japan due to the games taking place outside the international window.
But here's where it gets controversial... While Ikitau and Hooper are back in the fold, veteran flyhalf James O’Connor, who also plays in England for Leicester, was not recalled.
What do you think about the team's approach to this match? Do you believe the Wallabies will be able to overcome the mental hurdle of their past loss? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
