Italy 27 United States 10: Italians ready for Irish showdown

Captain Sergio Parisse’s third-minute try set the tone and, although Chris Wyles hit back, further scores from Luciano Orquera and Martin Castrogiovanni put the Azzurri in control at half-time.

A penalty try was the only score of the second half but it was sufficient to ensure the winner of Sunday’s game will progress along with Australia, assuming the Wallabies beat group minnows Russia on Saturday.

Parisse said: “We are happy because we took the five points – that is what was important for us.

“It was a lot of work but we scored four tries – that is the important thing. So we can look ahead to the Ireland game with confidence.

“It will be a big match. We have just five days to recover but we are looking forward to it with a lot of confidence.”

Coach Nick Mallett is aware of the challenge presented by Declan Kidney’s side, particularly after their stunning 15-6 win over Australia, but is hopeful his impressive front row of Martin Castrogiovanni, Leonardo Ghiraldini and Salvatore Perugini can again play their part as they did against the States.

Mallett said: “The game was not as open as the spectators would have liked but you have to play to your strengths.”