Namibia suffered a heavy 73-6 defeat at the hands of Italy in Windhoek on Friday in what was the Azzurri’s biggest ever away win with Namibia just weeks away ahead of the crucial Rugby Africa Cup.
The Italians ran in 11 tries, including a hat-trick from Federico Trulla, and additional scores from Marin, Gesi, Menoncello, Fusco, Spagnolo, and Varney, with two penalty tries awarded by Welsh referee Andrew Brace for Namibian infringements.
The home side managed only two penalty goals in response, struggling to keep up with Italy’s pace, structure, and discipline.
This result comes days after earlier this week, the Namibia Rugby Union (NRU) confirmed the resignation of head coach Chrysander Botha, less than a year after taking over from Allister Coetzee.
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Botha’s departure also came just weeks ahead of the Rugby Africa Cup 2025, set to take place from July 8 to 19 in Kampala, Uganda.
The tournament will follow a straight knockout format, with the winner earning a direct qualification spot for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Namibia will begin their campaign in Kampala against Senegal, a team they’ve historically dominated, but one that will be eager to capitalize on the Welwitschias’ current instability.
