Ireland 20-13 Italy: Six Nations rugby union – as it happened

Guardian Sport

by Daniel Gallan

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Ireland secured a hard-fought 20-13 victory against Italy in their Six Nations rugby union clash in Dublin. Despite a resurgent performance from Italy, who posed a serious threat of an upset, Ireland managed to edge out their opponents with a late try from Jacob Stockdale. The match saw Italy’s star player Sergio Parisse delivering another world-class display, while his teammates also contributed significantly to keeping the game close. However, Ireland’s experience and composure under pressure proved decisive in the end. The game was marked by intense battles in both the forwards and backs. Italy dominated possession early on and looked like they might pull off a shock win, with their powerful forward drives and precise kicking game causing problems for Ireland. Parisse’s leadership and creativity were instrumental in Italy’s efforts, as he orchestrated several promising attacks. However, critical errors at key moments, including missed opportunities to score points, ultimately cost Italy the match. Ireland, on the other hand, showed remarkable resilience despite a shaky start. Their defense held firm when it mattered most, particularly in the second half, and their tactical kicking game under pressure proved crucial. The late try from Stockdale, after a well-executed move, sealed the victory for Ireland and took the pressure off what had been a tense final quarter. The Opta supercomputer’s predicted result was intriguing, as it suggested a different outcome based on statistical analysis. This added another layer of interest to the match, highlighting the unpredictability of such high-stakes encounters. Fans were treated to a thrilling contest that showcased both Italy’s potential and Ireland’s ability to perform under pressure. This match matters to sports enthusiasts because it underscored the growing strength of Italian rugby and the depth of talent within the squad. Sergio Parisse’s standout performance has been a long-time coming for Italian fans, who have endured years of struggles in the Six Nations. His leadership and skill have set a high bar for future players to follow. Meanwhile, Ireland’s narrow victory serves as a reminder of the challenges they face in retaining their

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/14/2026