Italy’s Last-Minute Heartbreak: Garbisi’s Missed Penalty Denies Historic Six Nations Win in France

Paolo Garbisi’s last-minute penalty struck the post, preventing Italy from securing their first Six Nations win in France. Garbisi’s rushed penalty, following the ball falling off the tee, marked a dramatic end to the match.

Italy nearly clinched victory with Ange Capuozzo’s late try and Garbisi’s challenging conversion, equalizing against a 14-man French team. French centre Jonathan Danty received a red card for a high tackle on Juan Ignacio Brex, reflecting France’s frustrating first half.

Despite early French dominance and a try from Charles Ollivon, Italy stayed competitive, with Martin Page-Relo and Garbisi scoring penalties. The Azzurri, more energized in the second half with a player advantage, came close to making history in the game’s final moments.

The draw extends Italy’s Six Nations struggles, with their last win being in Cardiff two years ago, their sole victory in the last 45 attempts. France, still recovering from their World Cup disappointment, lacked cohesion in attack, despite winning at Murrayfield previously.

The French team, affected by Danty’s dismissal and Matthieu Jalibert’s injury, struggled in the second half. Italy capitalized on this disarray, with Capuozzo scoring a try, and Garbisi narrowly missing the decisive penalty.

Italy remains at the bottom of the standings and will face Scotland next, while France, currently fourth, is set to play Wales.

Line-ups

France Ramos; Penaud, Fickou, Danty, Lebel, Jalibert, Lucu; Baille, Mauvaka, Atonio, Woki, Tuilagi, Boudehent, Ollivon (capt), Cros. Replacements: Marchand, Taofifenua, Aldegheri, Taofifenua, Roumat, Abadie, Le Garrec, Moefana.

Italy Capuozzo; Menoncello, Brex, Mori, Ioane, Garbisi, Page-Relo; Fischetti, Nicotera, Zilocchi, Cannone, Ruzza, Favretto, Lamaro (capt), Vintcent. Replacements: Lucchesi, Spagnolo, Ferrari, Canali, Zambonin, Zuliani, Varney, Marin.