Game day - Italy v Wales

We made our was to the Stadio Olimpico for the six nation rugby game between Italy and Wales, just outside the stadium the was the "Peroni tented village" where there was a terrific pre match atmosphere with live bands, performing acts and a huge variety of costumes worn by both sets of fans.

On the day of the match, we made our way to the fan zone outside the stadium. The energy was palpable, a lively buzz filling the air as fans from both sides gathered in their colors, proudly wearing scarves, jerseys, and hats. Welsh supporters were singing, their voices carrying across the grounds, while Italian fans waved their flags and mingled in friendly banter. It felt as if the entire city was wrapped in excitement for this game.

Mandy and I were swept up in the festivities. We walked around, taking in the stalls selling everything from Italian street food to rugby gear. We couldn’t resist trying some fresh arancini and, of course, gelato to keep us going. The mix of Italian flavors and the thrill of game day made it all the more special.

As the crowd grew, chants filled the air. The Welsh supporters, in true form, launched into renditions of their favorite rugby songs, proudly singing “Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau” in full voice. Italian fans responded with equal passion, and the spirited exchanges made everyone smile and laugh. Even as rivals, the camaraderie was incredible.

From the moment we approached the stadium, the atmosphere was electric. Italian fans were decked out in blue jerseys, waving flags and chanting with infectious enthusiasm. Welsh fans, as passionate as ever, were a sea of red, creating an incredible contrast that turned the stadium into a lively mix of colors and camaraderie. The energy of the crowd was almost tangible, and we felt ourselves swept up in the excitement even before we’d taken our seats.

Inside, the air was thick with anticipation. Around us, fans were buzzing, chatting animatedly about the game, and cheering in bursts whenever the Italian players warmed up on the field. As the teams walked out, the roar of the crowd was deafening—both the Italians and Welsh fans were united in their love of the game, and the sound of thousands of voices filled the stadium in a way that made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. Mandy nudged me, and I could tell she felt it too.

The game itself was intense, with every tackle and pass keeping us on the edge of our seats. When Italy gained ground, the home crowd erupted in cheers, horns blaring and flags waving wildly. Welsh fans countered with their own chants, creating a spirited back-and-forth that felt like a battle of its own. Even those who weren’t particularly rugby fans couldn’t help but get drawn into the passion and pride surrounding us.

We then made our way up to our seats in the stadium and watched a highly entertaining game in which Wales ran out winners by 61 points to 20.

 

We then made our way back into the City to watch the England v France game in the Druids rock pub. The pub was already buzzing by the time we arrived—and we quickly realized that it was packed with Welsh fans! The sea of red shirts and the unmistakable Welsh accents created a festive, almost theatrical atmosphere. Mandy and I found a spot among the throngs of fans, and soon enough, we were swept up in the excitement