Italy recorded a landmark 26-19 victory over Australia in Udine, marking only their second win in history against the Wallabies.

The Azzurri’s comeback was led by Melbourne-born winger Monty Ioane and Louis Lynagh, the son of Australian rugby legend Michael Lynagh, whose tries within minutes of each other sealed the result.

The victory comes three years after Italy’s first ever triumph over Australia in Florence in 2022.

Australia took the early advantage when Matt Faessler scored from a maul after twenty minutes, followed by another forward-driven try from Angus Bell.

Andrew Kellaway’s conversion extended their lead, but Italy kept close through two penalties from Paolo Garbisi.

The Italians’ defensive discipline and breakdown pressure frustrated the visitors, and Garbisi added another kick just after half-time to level the score.

Momentum turned sharply when Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii was sent to the sin bin for a reckless tackle.

With the Wallabies reduced to fourteen men, Italy struck decisively.

In the fifty-eighth minute, Louis Lynagh crossed for a converted try to tie the game, and three minutes later Ioane powered over to give the hosts a lead they never relinquished.

From that point, Italy’s defence held firm, blunting repeated Australian attacks and controlling territory in the closing stages.

Head coach Gonzalo Quesada praised his side’s composure and fight, noting the team’s ability to convert limited chances into points.

“We had some problems with timing and in attack,” he said, “but we capitalised on the few quality positions we had to put them under pressure and stay in the game.”

The result piles pressure on Australia’s head coach Joe Schmidt following back-to-back losses on tour, including last week’s defeat to England.

Italy, buoyed by their confidence and home support, now turn their focus to world champions South Africa in Turin next weekend, while the Wallabies face a demanding test against Ireland in Dublin.