Get ready for an exciting twist in the rugby world! Italy's November fixture has just taken an unexpected turn, and it's all about the Rugby World Cup 2027!
In a surprising move, Samoa has decided to withdraw from their scheduled match against Italy on November 22nd in Genoa. But here's where it gets controversial... Samoa is opting to focus on their final qualification tournament for the World Cup, leaving Italy with a new opponent.
Stepping in to face the Azzurri is Chile, the 23rd team to secure their spot in the 2027 World Cup. Chile's qualification journey was an intense one, with a thrilling 31-12 victory over Samoa at Viña del Mar's Estadio Sausalito, following a 32-32 draw in the first leg of their qualifying playoff.
Now, Samoa's path to the World Cup takes them to Dubai, where they'll battle it out with Belgium, Namibia, and the winner of the upcoming South American showdown between Brazil and Paraguay.
This fixture change has been unanimously agreed upon by all unions involved, with World Rugby giving it the green light. And this is the part most people miss... the upcoming match in northern Italy will be the first-ever Test between Italy and Chile, and it could potentially set the stage for a rematch at the World Cup.
With the pool draw set for December 3rd, Italy, currently ranked 10th in the world, finds itself in Band Two, while Chile, ranked 17th, is in Band Three. But a win for Los Cóndores on Italian soil could shake up the world rankings dramatically.
World Rugby Chief Executive Alan Gilpin expressed his appreciation for the collaboration between the unions, stating, "Chile's qualification is a testament to their emerging force in world rugby, and we're excited to see them face Italy in this historic Test."
Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer at Six Nations Rugby, added, "Italy's accommodation of this change brings a fresh and exciting addition to the November window, offering Chile a unique opportunity to develop and showcase their culture and identity."
Andrea Duodo, President of FIR, welcomed the calendar change, saying, "Genoa, with its rich sports history and passionate South American community, is the perfect setting for this brand-new international challenge."
Samoa's decision to focus on qualification comes after a disappointing performance in the Pacific Nations Cup, while Chile's journey to the World Cup began with a strong showing in the South American qualification tournament, where they reached the final.
Chile's qualification marks their return to the World Cup stage, having made their debut in 2023.
So, will Italy's encounter with Chile be a preview of things to come at the World Cup? And what impact could this match have on the world rankings? These are the questions that rugby enthusiasts are now pondering.
What do you think? Will Chile's qualification journey give them an edge against Italy? Or will Italy's experience prevail? Let's discuss in the comments!
