The Wallabies last visited Italy three years ago, with the loss in Florence ultimately costing coach Dave Rennie his job. This year, a 26-19 defeat has cost the Wallabies something else, precious momentum for Australian rugby that was so hard won after the disastrous 2023 World Cup.

The historic victory against South Africa in Ellis Park and the resounding win in the third Test against the British and Irish Lions seemed desperately far away in the cold air of Udine in northern Italy.

Error-prone Australia came up short against the Italians in Udine. Credit: AP

The Wallabies arrived into Udine and were shown warm hospitality from a city delighted to host their Australian visitors. That hospitality ended as soon as the Wallabies entered the stadium, however. They faced a relentless an

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