Genuine question here but are we just ignoring the possibility that Italy could actually win this? Everyone keeps talking like this is a routine All Blacks result, but the context matters: NZ (With a brand new coaching group) will be coming off their first game against a good French team, straight into a game against an Italian side that: – Has already beaten England and Scotland in 6nations – Has a midfield that’s being talked about as one of the best in world rugby right now – Has a tough, confrontational forward pack and a scrum that won’t just fold – Actually plays with a clear identity, not just effort Add in the fact that its in Wellington, which hasn’t exactly been a fortress for the All Blacks in recent years and suddenly this isn’t as comfortable as people think. If NZ lose to France and Italy hang in for 50–60 minutes, that game flips fast. Pressure does weird things. Are we genuinely saying there’s no world where Italy win this? Because it feels like people aren’t analysing Italy… they’re just reacting to the name.   submitted by   /u/Minimum-Sir-2675 [link]   [comments]