New Zealand vs Italy Predictions - Italy backed to get close to major upset

New Zealand have never lost to Italy before, winning all 14 fixtures to date. They last met in 2021 where the All Blacks won 47-6.

New Zealand looks set to finish second in Pool A unless they suffer their first ever defeat to Italy on Friday. That is the only way they can still be eliminated.

Historically the All Blacks have beaten Italy with ease, however, this week is slightly different. New Zealand lost 27-13 to France in the World Cup opener before going on to beat Namibia 71-3 in their last match.

While the All Blacks are still favourites by a distance, they have been inconsistent of late. They will need to be at the top of their game to avoid an upset.

This is the final real test for the All Blacks so expect their strongest lineup. They rested players against Namibia last week.

From a results perspective, Italy have not been good this season but a closer look at performances will tell you a different story.

While the Italians lost all five games in the Six Nations, they were in all of them until late on. They also only lost by a score or two to Scotland and Ireland in the warm-up games.

Thus far Italy have taken two bonus points in their victories over Namibia and Uruguay. That was expected, however, but to force their way into the quarter-final, Italy will need to beat one of New Zealand or France.

This is Italy’s chance to create a major upset. They will certainly be at full strength.