The Azzurri’s 26–19 win over Australia last weekend underlined the progress they’ve made under coach Gonzalo Quesada, and Willemse expects a fierce contest.

‘Gaza’ praised Italy’s defensive structure, attacking width, solid set-piece, and aerial strength, saying those elements make them a difficult team to break down.

“Italy has really built their team all around. They defend and attack well, and they have great players who can pull strings for them, so it’s going to be a big challenge, especially in the air.

Set-piece-wise, they are a good mauling team and can take it up front as well, and their wings can get up high, so they have a good team throughout,” he said.

–SABC–