3. Italy 34 – 20 Scotland : 2000 Six Nations Championship
In Italy’s debut match after being added to the Six Nations, there was little expectations on them to perform. Despite finishing bottom of the table that year, Italy started off with a win against the odds, and thrived under their ‘no expectations’ tag. Scotland entered the competition as the reigning holders of the 1999 Five Nations Championship, and had great expectation to regain the title that same year.
Yet Italy’s unpredictability was their secret weapon. They effectively silenced the critics who didn’t wish to add a sixth nation, with a try from Giampiero de Carli, and 29 points coming from the boot of Diego Dominguez. The fly half kicked six penalties, a conversion, and an impressive hat-trick of drop goals to keep Italy’s points ticking over for a debut victory.
Undeniably the ultimate underdogs, Italy were 250/1 odds to win the 2000 Championship. They had yet to demonstrate their skills on the biggest stage, with a 101-3 loss to the All Blacks at the 1999 Rugby World Cup highlighting the difference in quality. Yet Italy persevered on their Six Nations debut, and stretched into the lead as Scotland’s Kenny Logan missed four penalty attempts at goal. A milestone victory for Italy, who have made upset wins a highlight of their Six Nations tenure.