Three years ago, the Wallabies suffered a defeat so humiliating it still sends shivers down the spines of Australian rugby fans. Imagine losing to Italy—a team historically considered underdogs—in a match that ended 28-27. That’s exactly what happened in Florence in 2022, and it wasn’t just a loss; it was a wake-up call that cost then-coach Dave Rennie his job. This weekend, as the Wallabies prepare to face the Azzurri in Udine, the ghosts of that nightmare are looming large, reminding them that complacency is their biggest enemy.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Was that loss a fluke, or a sign of deeper issues within the Wallabies’ strategy and mindset? Prop Taniela Tupou, who was on the field that day, admits the defeat still stings. “I can’t even remember the details of the game,” he confessed, “but I’ll never forget the feeling of losing.” For Tupou, this weekend’s match is a chance for redemption, but he’s not underestimating Italy. “They’re no pushovers,” he warned, pointing to Italy’s recent performances against South Africa and England in the Six Nations. “We can’t take this lightly.”
And this is the part most people miss: The Wallabies’ recent 25-7 drubbing by England has left them in no position to expect an easy win. Tupou, one of Australia’s standout performers in that loss, insists they’re treating Italy with the same respect as rugby powerhouses like England, Ireland, and France. “It’s a must-win for us,” he said. “We’re bringing our full-strength team, no excuses.”
The Wallabies have received a boost with the return of star center Len Ikitau and forward Tom Hooper, both of whom were absent during the recent Tests against England and Japan due to scheduling conflicts. However, the decision to leave veteran flyhalf James O’Connor out of the squad has raised eyebrows. Is this a strategic move, or a missed opportunity to leverage his experience?
As the Wallabies gear up for this weekend’s clash, the question remains: Can they put the ghosts of 2022 to rest, or will history repeat itself? What do you think? Is Italy a genuine threat, or are the Wallabies overthinking this? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
