Japan vs Italy Predictions - Visitors set for victory over struggling Japan

In their six previous meetings, Italy have won five with one Japanese win.

Rugby is still a growing sport in Japan, but it has taken a step back in terms of performance from the 2019 Rugby World Cup. They failed to get out of the group at the 2023 tournament.

Since going out in the group stage, which wasn’t catastrophic for the Brave Blossoms as they still challenged England and Argentina, and beat Samoa, they have lost their last two games.

In June, Japan suffered a 52-17 loss at home to England before losing 25-23 at home to Georgia last weekend.

With two straight defeats, Japan are at full strength for this clash as they look to take down a tier one side.

Italian rugby has never been in a better place after a very tough few years. Earlier this year, the Italians enjoyed their best ever Six Nations performance.

During the tournament, Italy narrowly lost to England before being thumped 36-0 by Ireland. They did not lose any of their last three games though, forcing a draw in France, beating Scotland at home and Wales away.

On their July tour thus far, Italy started poorly with a 33-25 loss to Samoa. Last week Italy however comfortably beat Tonga 36-14.

After testing a few combinations and players, Italy are at full strength this weekend against a good Japanese side.