Springboks thrash depleted Italy 66-7 with 9 tries in Nations Championship rugby

World champion South Africa dominated a weakened Italy 66-7 in Nations Championship rugby on Saturday, as expected. The Springboks, fielding an uncompromising lineup, scored nine tries, all successfully converted, at Juventus Stadium. A halftime score of 45-0 and Italy's defense shortcomings suggested the Springboks were poised to achieve their goal of a potential century.

However, Italy's defensive flaws and a decline in intensity ultimately led to their downfall. This victory brought South Africa's championship record to 4-0, increasing its lead over New Zealand. The team will face Six Nations champions France in Paris on Friday. Italy fell to 0-4, facing Argentina and Fiji next. Despite missing several injured front-line players, Italy showed improved performance when Stephen Varney and Tommaso Allan replaced Hal Glick and Jonathan Pearce after an hour.

Despite having lost only once against Italy, their 10-year losing streak continued, as they coach Rassie Erasmus selected the team based on their victory over New Zealand in the "Greatest Rivalry" series two months prior.