Defending champions France came from behind to avoid a shock defeat against Italy in a thrilling Six Nations game. The Azzurri led 24-22 before Matthieu Jalibert sniped over from close range as France claimed a bonus-point win at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
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Duhan van der Merwe ensured Steve Borthwick’s England reign was launched with an agonising defeat after the Scotland wing crossed twice in a Calcutta Cup classic at Twickenham. Van der Merwe plundered his decisive second try in the 74th minute as Scotland came from behind to record a dramatic victory in their Guinness Six Nations opener.
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Warren Gatland’s return was spoiled by Ireland as the world’s number one side humbled Wales in the opening Six Nations match in Cardiff. Ireland’s storming start saw tries from Caelan Doris, James Ryan and James Lowe – and 12 points from Johnny Sexton – establish a 27-3 half-time lead that Wales would never manage to surmount.
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Manchester United eased through their EFL Cup semi-final second-leg with Nottingham Forest to book a 1999 Wembley rematch with Newcastle. Second-half goals from Anthony Martial and Fred ensured victory on the night for Erik ten Hag’s side, even though a place in the final was virtually secure anyway thanks to their 3-0 first-leg triumph at the City Ground.
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Newcastle United reached their first cup final since 1999 by overcoming Southampton in the EFL Cup at an ecstatic St James’ Park. Eddie Howe’s resurgent side will face either Manchester United or Nottingham Forest at Wembley as the Magpies attempt to win their first major trophy since the Inter Cities’ Fairs Cup in 1969.
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