Author: Peter Wakeford

Three matches. Three defining plays. And now, just one round remains in the race for Six Nations glory.

France stormed Dublin with a performance that silenced the Aviva. Scotland clung on—just—against a resurgent Wales in a thriller at Murrayfield. And England? Merciless with ball in hand, devastating in execution, but left with questions after a bruising victory over Italy.

With Super Saturday approaching, the stakes have never been higher. And after another weekend of high drama, one thing is clear: this tournament is far from over.

Skip To:

• Ireland v France (27-42)
• Scotland v Wales (35-29)
• England v Italy (47-24)

Ireland v France (27-42)

A match that promised fireworks delivered in full.

Ireland, unbeaten in the tournament, looked to cement their title charge with a home victory. France, wounded from earlier setbacks, arrived in Dublin with a point to prove.

What unfolded was a game of sheer intensity—Irish dominance in possession met with French resilience in defence.

The Aviva Stadium witnessed a bruising encounter where France absorbed wave after wave of Irish pressure before punishing every mistake with ruthless efficiency.

As the contest wore on, it became a test of execution under fire. Ireland’s discipline wavered, France’s ruthlessness shone, and when the final whistle blew, it was Les Bleus who had stamped their authority on the championship.

First Half: Ireland Probing, France Unrelenting

By the 17th minute, France had already racked up 81 tackles, a staggering show of defensive resilience.

Despite Ireland dominating possession and territory, their attacks yielded little, with France’s defence withstanding relentless attacks and limiting Ireland to just two penalties before halftime.

Then came the breakthrough.

Antoine Dupont, always at the centre of the action, orchestrated an opening that put France on the front foot.

But just as quickly, disaster struck.

In the 29th minute, a ruck incident involving Tadhg Beirne and Andrew Porter left Dupont clutching his knee. Though there were discussions about potential foul play, the citing commissioner deemed it a rugby incident.

Would it derail them? Not a chance.

Maxime Lucu stepped in, and France didn’t miss a beat.

Ireland’s pressure finally told when Jack Crowley slotted a penalty to shift the balance in their favour. But France responded with their sharpened attacking instincts—Bielle-Biarrey, dancing through space, gliding over the line to stun the Aviva (21’).

Ireland’s pre-match injury woes were also felt. The absence of James Lowe saw Calvin Nash come into the starting lineup, a shift that would later play a role in Ireland’s defensive struggles.

Ireland rallied, and Dan Sheehan provided hope. The Irish hooker stormed over early in the second half (42’), momentarily putting Ireland ahead.

But the joy was short-lived.

Second Half: French Muscle Overwhelms Irish Ill-discipline

The pivotal twist came not from French brilliance, but Irish mistakes.

Joe McCarthy was sent to the bin (46’). France smelled blood. Within minutes, they made it count—Paul Boudehent powered over (47’), before Bielle-Biarrey struck again, exploiting the space, his pace too much to handle (50’).

Ireland’s second yellow, this time for Calvin Nash (58’), only added to their misery. With 14 men again, they crumbled.

France turned the screw—a rolling maul led to a well-worked try for Oscar Jegou (59’), and when Lucu finished a clinical move (62’), it was clear Ireland were losing their grip.

The conclusive hammer blow through Thomas Ramos (67’), before Damian Penaud (75’) added the exclamation point, finishing off a brilliant counter-attack.

By the time Cian Healy and Jack Conan crossed late (72’, 78’) to salvage pride, the game was long gone.

Final Verdict: A Statement Victory

Ireland had the firepower, but France had the edge. A tactical masterclass, a ruthless display of finishing, and a defensive stand that won them the contest.

For Fabien Galthié, his 7-1 bench split gamble paid off, ensuring sustained forward dominance in the final stretch.

For Ireland, this was a brutal reality check. Discipline, composure, and execution under pressure—those were the missing pieces.

For France, it was everything they needed. A title charge is alive and kicking.

Scotland v Wales (35-29)

Murrayfield shook. Scotland soared. And then, in a blur of Welsh defiance, it all teetered on the brink.

Blair Kinghorn’s two-try masterclass looked to have sealed it, Scotland raced into an early advantage with a ruthless first-half blitz. But rugby rarely follows the script. Wales roared back, launching a chaotic late charge that sent pulses racing in the dying moments.

Gregor Townsend’s side clung on, just. A 35-29 victory was theirs, but only after surviving an onslaught of Welsh resistance, a moment of TMO heartbreak, and a grandstand finish that nearly turned the contest on its head.

First Half: Scotland in Full Flow

Scotland wasted no time. Five minutes in, Finn Russell spotted a gap, Kinghorn hit the afterburners, and Murrayfield erupted as he breezed through for the opening score. Russell’s conversion (6’) signaled Scotland’s intent—they meant business.

The pressure didn’t relent. Minutes later, Tom Jordan stepped inside his man, fended off a tackle, and crashed over (11’), Russell once again adding the extras (12’).

Wales showed flickers of resistance—Gareth Anscombe’s early penalty (3’) had given them a foothold—but their first real breakthrough didn’t come until Blair Murray darted onto a well-placed kick to score in the corner (24’).

Any thoughts of a Welsh resurgence were swiftly shut down. Darcy Graham, back from injury and back to his electric best, latched onto a slick offload to stretch the lead (27’). With Russell’s boot as precise as ever (28’), Scotland were in cruise control.

Then came the knockout punch—Jordan’s second (33’), perfectly timed before the break, once again converted by Russell (34’).

28-8 at halftime. One-way traffic.

Second Half: Wales Spark Chaos

Kinghorn wasted no time resuming where he left off, hitting a perfect support line to notch his second (48’). Russell’s fifth successful conversion (49’) pushed the scoreboard to 35-8. Scotland were out of sight.

Or so it seemed.

Wales had been subdued. Now, they came alive.

Ben Thomas ignited the fightback, scything through a gap in Scotland’s line (61’), Sam Costelow’s replacement Cai Evans slotting the extras (62’).

Suddenly, the visitors were finding space, and when Teddy Williams bulldozed over just minutes later (68’), Evans’ conversion (69’) cut the deficit further.

Then came the controversy.

Taulupe Faletau thought he had dragged Wales even closer, crashing over the line. The celebrations were brief. The TMO review found a knock-on in the build-up. No try. Welsh frustration was palpable, their hopes dented.

But the fight wasn’t over.

Four minutes into stoppage time (80’+4), Max Llewellyn powered through, forcing his way over for a late, late try.

Evans converted, dragging Wales within six. But the clock had beaten them. No time left for one last push.

Scotland had survived. Just.

Final Verdict: A Game of Two Halves

For 40 minutes, Scotland looked untouchable. For the next 40, they were hanging on. A win is a win, but they’ll know performances like that won’t cut it against tougher opposition.

For Wales, it’s a case of what might have been. A sluggish start proved costly, but their second-half surge showed character. The fight is still there. The results? They’re still waiting.

As for Blair Kinghorn—two tries, a game-breaking performance, and the well-earned Man of the Match award. A night to remember.

But the Six Nations is only getting started. And after a night of chaos in Edinburgh, one thing is certain—there are no easy rides in 2025.

England v Italy (47-24)

Twickenham roared, and England delivered. A 47-24 victory over Italy wasn’t just a scoreline—it was a declaration.

With the title race still open, Steve Borthwick’s side unleashed a brand of rugby that finally matched ambition with execution, dispatching Italy with pace, power, and precision.

But it came at a price.

An early injury to Ollie Lawrence forced a backline reshuffle, with Elliot Daly stepping into the centres. England had to adapt, but Marcus Smith—already starting at full-back—seized control of the attack, and from that moment on, England found new life.

Smith, Ollie Sleightholme, and Tom Willis stole the show, while Italy—led by the electric Ange Capuozzo—refused to fade quietly.

The Red Rose marches on, but with Wales awaiting in the final round, the battle isn’t over yet.

First Half: A Shake-Up, A Breakthrough

England’s game plan lasted all of four minutes before disaster struck.

Ollie Lawrence, a key midfield presence, pulled up with an Achilles injury, forcing a shift. Elliot Daly moved to the centres, and with Marcus Smith already in place at full-back, England had to adjust.

The shake-up didn’t faze them. Tom Willis powered over from close range (4’), making an instant impact. Fin Smith slotted the conversion (4’), and England were in business.

But Italy refused to wilt. Capuozzo, always a menace in space, carved through England’s defence, his break leading to his own try in the corner (14’). Paolo Garbisi converted (15’), and just like that, Italy were level.

England’s response? Ruthless.

A sharp attack down the right, a perfectly timed pass from Smith, and Tommy Freeman finished in style (27’). Fin Smith converted (28’), before England’s momentum surged again.

With Italy struggling to contain the width, Sleightholme hit the afterburners (35’), burning past defenders for his first Test try. Another Fin Smith conversion (36’) gave England a 21-10 lead.

Just before the break, Italy stayed in touch. Ross Vintcent powered over (31’), Garbisi converted (32’), and a Garbisi penalty (38’) narrowed England’s lead to 21-17 at halftime.

Second Half: England Step on the Gas

If there was any doubt about England’s intent, it vanished within minutes of the restart.

Marcus Smith, pulling the strings from full-back, sparked England’s next strike. A darting break, a flicked offload, and suddenly, he was diving over the line himself (44’). Fin Smith nailed the extras (45’).

Italy barely had time to reset before England struck again. Tom Curry burst through a gap (47’), crashing over for his first try since returning from injury. Another Fin Smith conversion (48’) extended the lead.

Italy were reeling, and England weren’t done.

Sleightholme, alert to an Italian mistake, pounced on a loose ball and sprinted clear for his second (53’). Fin Smith converted once again (53’), and in less than ten minutes, England had blown the game wide open.

To their credit, Italy kept fighting. Capuozzo, brilliant all afternoon, conjured another moment of magic (71’), before Menoncello finished off a sharp attacking move. Garbisi converted (72’), cutting the deficit to 40-24.

But England had the final say.

Ben Earl, relentless as ever, capped things off (80’+1), smashing through tired defenders to put the icing on the cake.

Final whistle. A 47-24 win.

Final Verdict: A Step Forward, A Test Ahead

This was England with purpose, pace, and a cutting edge. A far cry from the structured, pragmatic performances of previous rounds, this was expansive rugby, built on tempo and width.

For Marcus Smith, it was a reminder of his brilliance. For Ollie Sleightholme, a breakout night. And for Jamie George, a milestone moment well-earned.

But the biggest question remains—was this England evolving, or simply overpowering an outmatched Italy?

With Wales waiting in the final round, we’re about to find out.

What’s Next? Super Saturday!

Four rounds down, and the Six Nations remains wide open. Ireland, England, and France are still in the hunt, while Scotland and Wales aim to finish on a high. One final day will decide it all.

Italy vs. Ireland – Win or Bust
Ireland’s title hopes rest on victory in Rome, but Italy won’t go quietly. Kieran Crowley’s side has shown real fight, and an upset here would send shockwaves through the tournament. Can Andy Farrell’s men hold their nerve?

Wales vs. England – The Rivalry Reignites
England’s title dream runs through Cardiff, but Wales at home is a different beast. It’s been a tough campaign for Warren Gatland’s men, but nothing fires them up like facing the old enemy. Expect a fierce contest.

France vs. Scotland – The Decider?
Paris hosts the Six Nations’ final act, and Scotland could have the last say in the title race. France has mixed flashes of brilliance with frustration, but a dominant display here might still prove decisive. Can Scotland spoil the party?

Missed out on Round 3?

We’ve got you covered! Read the 2025 Six Nations Round 2 Highlights now.

The opening weekend of the 2025 Six Nations wasted no time delivering high-intensity clashes, late-game drama, and talking points that will shape the weeks ahead.

Ireland muscled past Wales in Cardiff, grinding out a victory despite a red card setback to secure the Triple Crown. England held firm at Twickenham, reclaiming the Calcutta Cup as Scotland fell agonizingly short.

And in Rome, France ran riot, tearing through Italy in a record-breaking display of attacking rugby.

With momentum already shifting and teams laying down early markers, here’s how the third round of Six Nations rugby unfolded.

Skip To:

• Wales vs Ireland (18-27)
• England vs Scotland (16-15)
• Italy vs France (24-73)

Ireland Outmuscle Wales to Secure 14th Triple Crown in Cardiff Battle (18-27)

Ireland marched into Cardiff with silverware on their minds—and left with their 14th Triple Crown in the bag.

A bruising, breathless encounter at a deafening Principality Stadium saw Andy Farrell’s men grind out a 27-18 victory, fending off a defiant Welsh side to cement their status as the Northern Hemisphere’s top dogs.

It was physical, it was fiery, and it had drama at every turn.

Early Onslaught & Welsh Resistance

Ireland hit the ground running.

Seven minutes in, Jack Conan steamrolled over the whitewash, silencing the Cardiff crowd. Sam Prendergast, the latest Irish No.10 prodigy, slotted the extras with a swagger that belied his age.

But Wales refused to roll over. Jac Morgan and Tom Rogers led the charge, both crossing for tries as Gareth Anscombe’s pinpoint boot nudged the hosts into a 13-10 halftime lead.

Under interim coach Matt Sherratt, Wales brought the fire, the fight, and the belief—but against this Ireland side, belief alone was never going to be enough.

Turning Point: Ringrose Sees Red

Then came the controversy.

On a knife-edge at 13-10, the game exploded into chaos as Garry Ringrose saw red for a high shot on Ben Thomas. The new 20-minute red card rule came under the spotlight, and suddenly, Wales smelled blood.

Anscombe’s penalty stretched the lead to 16-10. Momentum had shifted.

Ireland Dig Deep, Osborne Deals the Knockout Blow

But champions don’t crumble.

Jamie Osborne flipped the script in the 55th minute, ghosting through the Welsh defence to restore Irish control.

Prendergast, unfazed by the pressure, kept the scoreboard ticking, dissecting the posts with the cold precision of a seasoned veteran.

Bundee Aki, battered and bloodied, dragged Ireland over the line with a warrior’s shift off the bench—even playing through a suspected broken nose.

Welsh Hope Extinguished by TMO Call

With the clock winding down, Ellis Mee thought he’d reignited Welsh hope, finishing off a sensational team move—only for the TMO to snuff it out. A knock-on in the build-up, and with it, Wales’ last flicker of belief.

A Resounding Victory

Ireland? Relentless. The championship pedigree runs deep, and this was another ruthless marker laid down.

Wales? Improved, but not there yet. The fire is back, but they’re still searching for a way to turn resistance into results.

For now, the Triple Crown belongs to Ireland—and with it, another reminder of who runs the Northern Hemisphere.

England Edge Scotland in Twickenham Nail-Biter (16-15)

For the first time since 2020, England have wrestled back the Calcutta Cup—just barely.

A game of fine margins, late drama, and heart-stopping tension saw Steve Borthwick’s men scrape past Scotland 16-15 at Twickenham, holding on for dear life as Finn Russell’s last-gasp conversion drifted wide.

First Half: Scotland Strike Early, England Dig Deep

Scotland came out swinging.

Four minutes in, Ben White darted through a gap and crashed over, silencing Twickenham. Russell’s conversion attempt sailed wide, but Scotland had landed the first blow.

England didn’t take long to respond. Tommy Freeman powered over the try line after 13 phases of sustained pressure, and Marcus Smith added the conversion, putting the hosts ahead 7-5.

The visitors weren’t done. Huw Jones, a thorn in England’s side in recent years, sliced through the defence in the 20th minute, restoring Scotland’s lead. Once again, Russell’s boot let him down.

It was tense, it was tactical, and it was tight. England had just 39% possession in the first half but refused to break, absorbing wave after wave of Scottish pressure.

Second Half: England Take Control—But Only Just

With both sides trading blows, the second half became a battle of the boot. Marcus Smith nailed a penalty (56’), bringing England level before slotting another (66’) to edge them 13-10 in front.

The decisive moment? Fin Smith’s monster penalty from distance (72’). The ball sailed through, Twickenham erupted, and England had a crucial six-point cushion heading into the dying minutes.

But then, the chaos.

In the dying moments, Duhan van der Merwe powered over in the 79th minute, cutting England’s lead to just a single point at 16-15. The match now hung on Finn Russell’s right boot.

Controversy followed. Referee Pierre Brousset instructed Russell to take the conversion from a wider angle than where van der Merwe had grounded the ball—making an already high-pressure kick even tougher.

Russell struck it cleanly, but the ball drifted wide. England had survived.

The stadium erupted. A contest hanging by a thread had slipped Scotland’s grasp, while England clung on by the slimmest of margins.

Standout Performers

• Marcus Smith ran the show, keeping England composed in the clutch moments.

• Maro Itoje was everywhere, disrupting Scotland’s attack and leading the defensive stand.

• Van der Merwe, relentless all evening, came within inches of stealing the show.

What’s Next?

Scotland may have outscored England three tries to one, but their missed kicks proved fatal.

For England, this was a win built on resilience, discipline, and sheer will.

For Scotland, another brutal near-miss in a fixture that has swung their way in recent years.

One thing’s for sure—this Six Nations is just getting started.

France Dismantle Italy in Record-Breaking Six Nations Rout (24-73)

France came to Rome with a point to prove. They left with history rewritten—and silverware in hand.

Les Bleus tore through Italy with ruthless precision, racking up a record-breaking 73 points—their highest-ever Six Nations tally—while setting a new tournament benchmark with 14 tries in a single match.

It was fast, ferocious, and flat-out unstoppable. And in doing so, they retained the Garibaldi Trophy in emphatic fashion.

Italy Strike First, France Unleash the Onslaught

For a moment, the Stadio Olimpico dared to dream.

Tommaso Menoncello carved open the French defence in the 11th minute, sending the home crowd into raptures. But the celebrations barely had time to settle before France hit back—hard.

Three minutes later, Mickaël Guillard bulldozed over the line, dragging defenders with him.

From there, the floodgates burst open. Peato Mauvaka powered through off a textbook lineout maul (21’), before Antoine Dupont danced his way through gaps that barely existed (24’).

Italy threw a punch of their own—Juan Ignacio Brex slicing through for their second (28’)—but it barely fazed Les Bleus.

Paul Boudehent crossed two minutes later, before Léo Barré ghosted through the defence (38’), pushing France’s lead to 35-17 at the break.

Second Half: France Go Full Throttle

If Italy had any hope of a fightback, France obliterated it within minutes of the restart.

Grégory Alldritt steamrolled over (45’). Louis Bielle-Biarrey burned defenders on the outside (50’). And Dupont? He wasn’t done yet—catching Italy off guard with a quick tap-and-go (54’) to rack up his second of the night.

Paolo Garbisi’s 61st-minute try offered a flicker of resistance, but at this point, it was damage control. France were hunting history.

Barré bagged his second (65’), slicing through as if Italy weren’t even there. Then, in the dying moments, Théo Attissogbé and Pierre-Louis Barassi piled on the misery, sealing a staggering 73-point masterclass.

Standout Performers

• Antoine Dupont – Pulled the strings, carved up the defence, and walked away with a double. Pure class.

• Léo Barré – Matched Dupont’s two-try haul, showcasing electric footwork and ice-cold finishing.

• Mickaël Guillard – Set the tone early with a bulldozing score, laying the platform for the onslaught.

A Defining Win—And a Warning Shot

France are back. The Grand Slam dream is still alive. And with Ireland looming on March 8, Les Bleus have sent a message loud and clear:

Come at the kings – just don’t miss.

What’s Next? Round 4 Incoming

Three rounds down, and the Six Nations has never felt tighter. Ireland and France remain locked in a battle for supremacy, England are grinding out results, and Scotland are still searching for their moment.

With the final stretch approaching, Round 4 is where ambitions turn into reality—or unravel completely.

Ireland vs. France – A Defining Clash in Dublin

Grand Slam aspirations. Championship hopes. A rivalry at its peak. Ireland welcome France to Dublin in what could be the title decider. The Aviva will be rocking, and with both sides desperate to seize control of the tournament, expect fireworks.

Scotland vs. Wales – Fight for Redemption

Scotland’s campaign hasn’t gone to plan. Winless and wounded, they need a statement at Murrayfield. But Wales are just as desperate. A season of struggle has left them battling for pride, and a victory here would be a much-needed spark. Something has to give.

England vs. Italy – A Test of Character

England keep finding ways to win, but Italy’s resurgence is no longer a shock—it’s real. Twickenham awaits a fixture that, for years, had a foregone conclusion. This time, the Azzurri arrive with belief, and England must prove they’re still a step ahead.

The margins are razor-thin. The stakes couldn’t be higher. And with Round 4 looming, the Six Nations is about to enter its most decisive chapter yet.

Missed out on Round 2?

Catch up on all the key moments—read the 2025 Six Nations Round 2 Highlights now!

If Round 1 laid the foundations, Round 2 ripped up the script.

Three matches, three seismic results, and a tournament that is already shifting in unexpected ways.

England rose from the brink to stun France in an all-time Twickenham classic. Ireland’s machine kept rolling, swatting aside Scotland with a statement win at Murrayfield. And then came Italy—no longer just disruptors, but contenders, dismantling Wales in a historic night in Rome.

The Six Nations is alive. The stakes are climbing. And after a weekend of twists and turns, one thing is clear: there are no guarantees in 2025.

Skip To:

• England vs France (26-25)
• Ireland vs Scotland (32-18)
• Italy vs Wales (22-15)

England vs France (26-25)

If Round 1 set the tempo, Round 2 detonated the Six Nations into life.

England clawed out a 26-25 win over France at Twickenham in a contest that flipped on its head more times than the ball itself.

Momentum swung violently, tactical battles played out across every blade of grass, and the final act left an entire stadium gasping for air.

What unfolded at Twickenham went beyond a standard rugby contest, evolving into a fierce test of nerve, execution, and resilience.

France had control. Then they didn’t. England found their moment and refused to let go.

First Half: French Precision Meets English Resistance

France arrived with intent, their early phase play sharp, their line speed suffocating. They drove England back, stretched them wide, but when it came to finishing, they blinked.

Antoine Dupont and Damian Penaud both carved open space, only for the ball to slip away at the crucial moment.

It took until the 30th minute for France to find the cutting edge.

Dupont, as instinctive as ever, released Penaud on the outside. A measured chip, a burst of acceleration from Louis Bielle-Biarrey, and suddenly Twickenham was watching a blue jersey glide over the whitewash.

France should have built from there. Instead, England pounced. One trip into the French 22 was all they needed.

Ollie Lawrence took the direct route, shrugging off Thomas Ramos and thundering under the posts.

Marcus Smith’s conversion made it 7-7 at the break. England had absorbed everything France threw at them and still stood level.

Second Half: A Battle for Control

France wrestled back the lead through two Ramos penalties, nudging ahead 13-7, but the balance was never settled for long.

Fin Smith, making his first Test start, spotted an opening. His cross-field kick spiraled into Twickenham’s floodlights, and Tommy Freeman climbed above Bielle-Biarrey to bring it down and finish. The conversion sailed wide, but England were closing in.

Not for long.

Damian Penaud has built a career on moments like these. One sharp line, a flash of acceleration, and France were back in control at 18-12.

Then came the power shift. England’s forwards turned pressure into points, and replacement prop Fin Baxter smashed through a pile of bodies to touch down. Smith’s conversion edged England in front, 19-18. Twickenham believed.

The Final Minutes: A Twisted Finish

Five minutes left. Bielle-Biarrey darted through, his second try of the night restoring France’s lead. With Ramos adding the extras, France led 25-19.
England were out of time. Or so it seemed.

79th minute. A fraction of space. Elliot Daly saw it before anyone else. He hit the gap, sliced through the blue line, and raced home. The noise was instant, deafening. But the job wasn’t done.

Fin Smith, 21 years old, 20 metres out. His kick needed no second invitation. 26-25. A win ripped from the brink.

Standout Performances

• Fin Smith: A first start, a last-minute kick, and a performance that England fans won’t forget in a hurry.

• Tommy Freeman: Claimed every high ball that came his way and delivered a moment of brilliance when England needed it.

• Elliot Daly: One chance, one clean break, one match-winning try.

What’s Next?

England rediscovered their backbone. They’re far from the finished article, but they’ve got belief. France, on the other hand, will wonder how they let this one slip. The Six Nations is just warming up.

Ireland vs Scotland (32-18)

If there were any doubts about Ireland’s Six Nations credentials, they vanished under the Murrayfield lights.

A resounding 32-18 victory over Scotland made it 11 in a row against their Celtic rivals, a streak that now feels less like a contest and more like a ritual.

From the opening whistle, Ireland dictated the tempo, striking early, absorbing pressure, and punishing mistakes. For Scotland, an already daunting task became near impossible as key injuries derailed their challenge.

By the time the final whistle sounded, Ireland had done more than just win. They’d sent a message.

First Half: Irish Control, Scottish Misfortune

It took eight minutes for Ireland to break through. Sam Prendergast, fearless on his first away start, fizzed a long pass to Calvin Nash, who skated through untouched. Prendergast’s conversion made it 7-0—a start as sharp as it was clinical.

Scotland’s response? Frustration.

Duhan van der Merwe saw yellow after clashing with Nash off the ball. Moments later, disaster struck—Finn Russell and Darcy Graham collided, both forced off for head injury assessments. With their playmakers gone, Scotland were suddenly swinging in the dark.

Ireland smelt blood.

Captain Caelan Doris powered over, Prendergast added the extras, and at 17-0, it looked like a rout was on.

But Scotland found a flicker of hope.

Back from the bin, Van der Merwe bulldozed his way over, before Blair Kinghorn’s boot cut the gap to 17-11 at halftime.

Second Half: Ireland Shut the Door

The break changed nothing—Ireland were relentless.

A slick move down the left unleashed James Lowe, and his trademark finish restored breathing space. When Jack Conan barreled over to seal the bonus point, the green shirts knew the job was done.

Scotland, to their credit, fought to the end. Ben White sniped over late, Kinghorn’s conversion adding respectability to the scoreline. But the damage had long been done.

Standout Performances

• Sam Prendergast: A first away start, a cool head, and 12 points to his name. The future of Irish rugby? It’s looking bright.

• Caelan Doris: Led from the front, dominant in contact, and set the tone with his first-half try. A captain’s performance.

• James Lowe: One chance, one finish, one crucial try to put Scotland out of sight.

What’s Next?

Ireland march on. Unbeaten. Unwavering.

Unstoppable? Their Grand Slam ambitions remain intact, while Scotland are left to regroup, wondering what might have been.

For now, though, the Six Nations is Ireland’s playground.

Italy vs Wales (22-15)

For years, Rome has been little more than a stopover for visiting teams. A place where sides collected points, dusted themselves off, and moved on.

Not this time. Not this Italy.

A gritty, determined, and ice-cold performance saw the Azzurri defy history, claiming a 22-15 victory over Wales—their first back-to-back wins over the Welsh and their first home triumph in the fixture since 2007.

For Wales, the nightmare deepens. Fourteen straight defeats. Twelfth in the world rankings. A team once built on defiance now teeters on the edge.

At the Stadio Olimpico, though, none of that mattered. This night belonged to Italy.

First Half: Italy Dictate, Wales Stumble

The early exchanges were tense and tactical—both teams poking for weaknesses, waiting for an opening.

Josh Adams had Wales’ first real chance, chasing a Tomos Williams cross-kick, but the wet conditions betrayed him. A fumbled knock-on. A missed opportunity.

Italy made no such mistakes.

A ruck infringement handed Tommaso Allan an early shot, and the fullback obliged—3-0 inside six minutes. Ben Thomas responded to level, but Italy were growing into the contest.

Then came the breakthrough.

Paolo Garbisi saw something no one else did.

A feint. A grubber. A flash of blue darting through the blindside. Ange Capuozzo read it before anyone, touching down with the kind of instinct you can’t teach.

Allan converted, then added two more penalties before the break. 16-3.

Italy weren’t just leading—they were in control.

Second Half: Holding Their Nerve

Wales needed a spark. They turned to Dan Edwards, hoping a fresh pair of hands would change their fortunes.

It took time, but finally, in the 69th minute, they found a way through. Aaron Wainwright crashed over from a rolling maul, a brief reminder of the Wales of old. But Edwards’ conversion clattered off the post. A miss that loomed large.

Italy weren’t done scoring.

Allan—cool, clinical, unshaken—slotted another penalty (19-8, 73rd minute).

Then, the chaos.

Wales camped on the Italian line. Penalty after penalty, the pressure mounted. With two minutes left, the referee went under the posts—penalty try. 22-15.

The penalty try gave Wales a lifeline, but the clock was against them. There was no late surge, no desperate last attack—just a final whistle confirming Italy’s triumph. Rome erupted.

Standout Performances

• Tommaso Allan: 17 points. Absolute composure. A performance built on precision and nerve.

• Ange Capuozzo: A game-breaking moment. One sniff of space was all he needed.

• Paolo Garbisi: Vision, execution, leadership. The architect behind Italy’s biggest win in years.

What’s Next?

For Italy, a new chapter is unfolding. This isn’t just a plucky side stealing wins—it’s a team that expects them.

For Wales? Rock bottom keeps getting deeper.

What’s Next? Round 3 Incoming

Two rounds down, and the Six Nations has already flipped expectations. England’s comeback, Ireland’s dominance, and Italy’s rise have cracked the tournament wide open. Now, as the dust settles, Round 3 looms with defining battles ahead.

England vs. Ireland – Twickenham Showdown
Ireland are rolling, unbeaten, and looking every bit like Grand Slam contenders. But Twickenham is a different beast. England, fresh off their thriller against France, now have belief—and a chance to derail Ireland’s charge. Momentum is theirs. Execution must follow.

Scotland vs. Italy – A New Power Shift?
Scotland expected to be in the title conversation. Instead, they’re chasing their first win. Italy, meanwhile, are growing into something more than just disruptors. Can they prove their Wales win wasn’t a one-off? Murrayfield awaits.

France vs. Wales – Two Teams on the Brink
Two rounds. Two defeats. Two nations desperate for a reset. France have flashed brilliance but lacked a killer edge. Wales, sinking further, need more than just a response—they need a revival. Paris will either be the stage for redemption or another crushing blow.

The stakes are rising. The pressure is mounting. And as Round 3 looms, one thing is certain—there’s no hiding in the Six Nations.

Missed out on Round 1?

Get up to speed—read the 2025 Six Nations Round 1 Highlights now!

Buckle up, rugby fans—because 2025’s Six Nations is off to a roaring start.

On one side, you’ve got France flexing their muscles with a jaw-dropping shutout against Wales, and on the other, a resurgent Scotland lighting up Murrayfield.

Throw in Ireland’s nail-biter of a win over England at the Aviva, and you’ve got all the makings of a tournament that’s already firing on all cylinders.

Expect tries in bunches, controversial decisions you’ll be arguing about for days, and underdogs looking to flip the script. So settle in and enjoy the ride—this year’s Six Nations looks like it’s going to deliver in spades.

Skip to:

• France vs Wales (43-0)

• Scotland vs Italy (31-19)

• Ireland vs England (27-22)

France vs Wales (43-0)

France set the tone last Friday (31st January) with an unrelenting 43-0 demolition of Wales at the Stade de France. A 13th consecutive defeat now casts a dark cloud over Warren Gatland’s tenure.

From the outset, France looked impenetrable. It took just 18 minutes for Antoine Dupont to carve open Wales’ defense, his deft drop-kick finding Théo Attissogbe, who darted over the line. Ramos added the extras (19′).

Controversy flared as Attissogbe latched onto Dupont’s kick a couple of yards ahead of where many felt the pass originated. Calls for a forward pass went unanswered, and the try stood, much to Wales’ frustration.

With Wales reeling, France struck again. Louis Bielle-Biarrey’s razor-sharp footwork sliced through the defense (23′), doubling the tally.

Dupont orchestrated the attack with surgical precision, setting up three of France’s first four tries. His sensational offload to Bielle-Biarrey in the 40th minute sealed the bonus point before halftime.

With the fourth try secured, the hosts locked in the bonus point, heading into the break with an unassailable 28-0 lead by way of Bielle-Biarrey.

As the second half ensued, any hopes of a Welsh resurgence were swiftly crushed as France showed no signs of slowing down, and Wales conceded a fifth try at the stalwart efforts of replacement hooker, Julien Marchand, scoring from a driving maul (55′).

What soon followed had Wales scrambling as Ntamack’s pinpoint drop kick found Gailleton, who crossed for yet another French try.

Grégory Alldritt added to the misery, crashing over the line late on to round off a performance that was as dominant as it was demoralising for the visitors.

Amid the French brilliance, however, there was one sour note: Romain Ntamack’s red card. The fly-half saw his night cut short for a reckless shoulder-to-head tackle on Ben Thomas, a costly decision that means he will miss the upcoming clash against England.

His absence for the England clash is a massive blow—France will now need a new playmaker to step up in a fixture that could define their title hopes.

Scotland vs Italy (31-19)

Scotland launched their 2025 Six Nations campaign in emphatic fashion, dispatching Italy with a clinical 31-19 victory at a raucous Murrayfield Stadium on February 1.

A masterclass from Huw Jones, who ran riot with a hat-trick of tries, ensured Gregor Townsend’s men got off to a flyer, reclaiming the Cuttitta Cup in the process.

From the opening whistle, Scotland were ruthless in attack and relentless in defense, and it took just four minutes for Rory Darge to crash over the line, setting the tone for what was to come.

Italy barely had time to settle before Jones added his first in the 9th minute, a slick backline move carving open the Azzurri’s defense. Murrayfield erupted.

But if Scotland thought Italy would roll over, Tommaso Allan had other ideas. The full-back kept Italy within reach with pinpoint accuracy off the tee, slotting two penalties to drag his side back into contention.

Scotland, however, had no plans of slowing down.

Ben White’s try in the 29th minute, courtesy of a silky offload from Dave Cherry, reasserted Scottish dominance, though Italy refused to go quietly.

Scotland’s control was shattered in an instant. Juan Ignacio Brex read the play perfectly, intercepting a loose pass and racing away untouched to score under the posts (42′). With Allan’s conversion, the score was locked at 19-19—suddenly, Murrayfield fell silent.

But this was Jones’ night. As the game hung in the balance, the centre turned on the style, twisting, stepping, and surging through the Italian defense, dotting down twice more in the 61′ and 66′ to seal the result.

The hat-trick hero had delivered when it mattered, ensuring Scotland’s Six Nations aspirations remain firmly on track.

A statement win to start the campaign, but a bigger challenge looms next—Ireland await.

Ireland vs England (27-22)

A clash of champions at the Aviva Stadium saw Ireland edge a resurgent England 27-22, but only after a game of two wildly contrasting halves.

England controlled the first half, but Ireland roared back, overturning a halftime deficit to snatch a crucial bonus-point victory

England landed the first blow through debutant Cadan Murley in the 9th minute, the winger latching onto Henry Slade’s perfectly weighted kick-through to dive over in the corner.

Marcus Smith added the extras (’10), handing Steve Borthwick’s side an early 7-0 lead. The visitors exuded confidence, their youthful squad unfazed by the Dublin cauldron.

Ireland believed they had an instant reply as Ronan Kelleher crashed over—but the TMO ruled Tadhg Beirne off his feet at the breakdown, chalking off the score.

Ireland kept probing and finally broke through in the 35th minute. Jamison Gibson-Park spotted a gap and darted over from close range, giving the hosts their first try of the match. The missed conversion left the score at 7-5, but momentum had begun to shift.

Just before the break, England extended their advantage as Smith’s penalty (’40+1) made it 10-5. But moments later, the fly-half went from hero to villain, seeing yellow for an offside infringement that left England down to 14 as they headed into the second half.

Ireland Turn the Tide

With England down to 14, Ireland wasted no time in seizing control. They emerged from the tunnel with renewed intensity, and the second half quickly became their stage.

Bundee Aki (52′) powered through England’s defensive line, shrugging off tackles to put Ireland ahead for the first time. Sam Prendergast added a penalty (56′) to stretch the lead, as the hosts began to take control.

England looked rattled, and Ireland pressed home their advantage. Tadhg Beirne (64′) crashed over after a dominant rolling maul, punishing the visitors for their fading discipline.

With England scrambling, Ireland turned up the heat.

Dan Sheehan finished off a sweeping move in the 72nd minute, bursting onto a sharp inside pass to touch down. Jack Crowley converted (73′), pushing Ireland out to 27-10 and seemingly putting the game beyond England’s reach.

England’s Late Fightback

But England refused to fold.

Tom Curry’s tireless effort paid off with a try in the 76th minute, keeping his side in contention. Then, with the clock deep in the red, Tommy Freeman powered over (80’+2), setting up a nerve-wracking finale.

Smith’s conversion narrowed the gap (80’+2), but Ireland held their nerve, seeing out the contest as champions do.

A five-point victory, but not without its warning signs.

Simon Easterby, leading in Andy Farrell’s absence, praised Ireland’s resilience but pointed to areas for refinement ahead of a bruising encounter with Scotland.

For England, this was a defeat that stung, but offered glimpses of promise. Steve Borthwick acknowledged the gulf in experience, highlighting Ireland’s cohesion against an English side still forging its identity.

For now, Ireland march forward—battle-tested and victorious. England, bruised but unbroken, will regroup before their next challenge.

What’s Next? Round 2 Incoming

One round down, but the drama is only just beginning. Round 2 of the 2025 Six Nations is set to raise the stakes even higher, with crucial clashes that could shape the title race.

England vs France (Twickenham, 8th February, 16:45 GMT)

A wounded France heads to Twickenham without Romain Ntamack, forced to reshuffle after his red card. Can Les Bleus maintain their dominance without their star playmaker, or will England—buoyed by their late fightback in Dublin—capitalise on home advantage? Expect fireworks in this Le Crunch showdown.

Scotland vs Ireland (Murrayfield, 9th February, 15:00 GMT)

Scotland stormed through Round 1, but now they face the ultimate test—taking down the reigning champions. Ireland’s forward pack will look to suffocate the Scots, while Gregor Townsend’s men must find a way to unlock one of the tournament’s most stubborn defences. A win for Scotland keeps their title hopes alive. A loss? And they could be playing catch-up.

Italy vs Wales (Stadio Olimpico, 9th February, 14:15 GMT)

It’s already feeling like a must-win game for both sides. Italy showed glimpses of brilliance against Scotland, but their set-piece fragility cost them. Wales, reeling from their crushing defeat in Paris, need a response—but with confidence low, a trip to Rome feels anything but routine.

The pressure is on, the stakes are rising, and Round 2 promises to be unmissable. Buckle up—because the 2025 Six Nations is only just getting started.

With the 2024 Six Nations firmly in the rearview mirror, the rugby world is already buzzing with anticipation for the 2025 edition. Fans and players alike are gearing up for another year of breathtaking tries, bone-jarring tackles, and fierce rivalries.

And the best part? The 2025 Guinness Six Nations promises to deliver its most thrilling tournament yet.

Below is the full 2025 Six Nations schedule and key match dates so you can mark your calendars and ensure you don’t miss a moment of the drama.

Full Six Nations 2025 Schedule: All Dates and Fixtures

Must-Watch Matches of the 2025 Six Nations

With a schedule full of unmissable action, some fixtures stand out as the potential highlights of the tournament. These are the key matches that every rugby fan should circle on their calendar:

• France vs Wales (Friday, January 31st, 8:15 PM): The tournament kicks off under the lights of the Stade de France in Paris. Expect fireworks as these two rugby powerhouses clash to set the tone for the Six Nations.

• Ireland vs England (Saturday, February 1st, 4:45 PM): A fierce rivalry that always promises drama, this matchup between two of the biggest rugby nations could set the stage for the rest of the tournament.
• England vs Scotland (Saturday, February 22nd, 4:45 PM): One of rugby’s oldest and fiercest rivalries. Expect nothing less than fireworks when these two meet in a historic grudge match.
• Wales vs England (Saturday, March 15th, 4:45 PM): The final weekend’s clash between Wales and England in Cardiff could be decisive in crowning the 2025 champion. Always a high-stakes encounter.

Super Saturday: The Decisive Final Round

Super Saturday on March 15th could be the ultimate decider. Three games, three potential champions. The final day of action will keep rugby fans glued to their screens.

• Italy vs Ireland (14:15 PM): Could Ireland need a big win in Rome against Italy to clinch the title?
• Wales vs England (16:45 PM): A potential title decider in Cardiff—who will triumph in this age-old rivalry?
• France vs Scotland (20:00 PM): All eyes will turn to Paris for the final match, which might just decide the 2025 Six Nations champion.

Will France’s home advantage prove decisive, or will Scotland spoil the party with their determined playmaking?

Who Will Take the Crown in 2025?

As we look ahead to the 2025 Six Nations, the path to victory is wide open. While squads aren’t yet finalized, rumors are already swirling about some of the tournament’s biggest stars who may take center stage.

Will France, with their home advantage, claim supremacy? Can England’s emerging talents fulfill their potential? Or will Ireland or Scotland rise to the occasion?

No matter who lifts the trophy, the 2025 Six Nations is bound to deliver unforgettable moments.

As the countdown to the 2025 Six Nations continues, make sure you’re ready for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in rugby history.

With key fixtures and intense rivalries, this year’s tournament is one you won’t want to miss. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to kickoff.

Show Your Support: 2025 Six Nations Rugby Shirts

Gear up for the tournament and represent your team with pride! Get your 2025 Six Nations Rugby Shirt, now available at Lovell Rugby, and cheer on your team in style.