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England's humiliation was compounded as Italian media outlets ridiculed their opponents whilst celebrating their historic Six Nations triumph. Italy emerged 23-18 victors at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, finally defeating England after 32 fruitless attempts.

This defeat relegated Steve Borthwick's team to fifth in the standings, representing their third consecutive loss following earlier setbacks against Ireland and Scotland in the tournament. The Italians rose to fourth place, sitting just five points behind Ireland which maintains their contact with the summit of the table. While the local media were swift to commend their side for their historic victory, they also emphasised just how inadequate England had been.

Gazzetta reported that England were "occupying" the Italian half effectively but failed to create "serious danger." They suggested the Italians were "throwing away" the match that seemed "within reach," but fortunately, the English side were content to make "stupid mistakes" as well.

On Rugby claimed that it was a "dirty, difficult match" between the teams that was filled with "pure tension." They went so far as to say that the Italians delivered a "courageous, challenging" and almost quintessentially 'British' performance to repel the visitors' comeback.

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Despite numerous problems being evident throughout the encounter, the media outlet suggested that Italy "proved to be a team," which is "truly scary" for the other Six Nations nations. Keo Sport reported that local coverage was "unanimous" in recognising the history being made in Italy.

The FIR official website described it as a "heroic" day, whilst Corriere dello Sport labelled the victory a 'storica impresa' - also known as a momentous achievement.

Four main themes were evident throughout the major coverage, including the home crowd, the significance of finally defeating England, the squad's comeback, and Gonzalo Quesada's long-term project, which now appears to be bearing fruit.

This loss has plunged the England team into turmoil with Borthwick criticised by supporters who have demanded his dismissal. Despite this, Rugby Football Union chief executive Bill Sweeney has backed the head coach and stated his position is not under threat.

Sweeney said: "After a 12-match winning run, these past three results have been hugely disappointing, and we feel that just as much as everyone else.

"Steve and his coaching team are working tirelessly to make improvements, and we remain fully committed to supporting them and the players as they face France this weekend and then look ahead to the Nations Championship.

"Part of that support is being open about what hasn't gone right during this Six Nations and making sure everyone has a clear sense of how we move through those challenges together.

"That's something we'll be talking through and working on in the days and weeks ahead."