While Italy can’t possibly be as poor here as they were last week against the All Blacks, France should still bag a comfortable win in Lyon on Friday.
France v Italy
Friday 6 October
Groupama Stadium
France 1/100 | Draw 33/1 | Italy 14/1
The Azzurri imploded in a 17-96 capitulation at the hands of New Zealand in the last round and there’s no telling where they go to from here. While they do tend to put up better performances against northern hemisphere sides, and though they are currently level on points with the All Blacks in third in Pool A, it’s tough to see them getting anywhere near the French on Friday.
It remains to be seen whether Antoine Dupont will return for the tournament hosts this week, but regardless they will expect to ease past this damaged Italian outfit. They should secure a full haul of five-log points to seal top spot in the pool.
Verdict: France (-26.5) 5/6
