On February 23, 2025, the anticipation builds for the rugby match between Italy and France, where Ange Capuozzo will take the field for the fourth time against his birthplace and current home.
Capuozzo is not the typical athlete; he embodies the blend of two cultures, having been born and raised in Grenoble, France, and now representing Italy on the international rugby scene. His unique position creates emotional layers intertwined with competitive spirit, especially when facing France.
Speaking on the Crunch podcast from L’Équipe, Capuozzo spoke candidly about what this match means to him. "Cette rencontre représente forcément quelque chose d’extraordinaire pour moi. Entendre la Marseillaise avant le match, c’est quand même quelque chose d’important," he shared, articulately expressing the depth of emotions experienced on game day.
This time around, Capuozzo intends to focus more on sporting objectives rather than emotional sentiments. Reflecting on his earlier matches against the French, he recalled feeling overwhelmed by emotions, which impacted his performance. "Il faut laisser la place au sportif plus qu’aux émotions," he stated, marking a shift toward prioritizing the competitive essence of the game.
With Italy having struggled against France, achieving two losses and one draw—especially notable was their recent performance during the 2023 World Cup where they lost 60-7—Capuozzo's resolve for victory stands strong this February afternoon at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
For Capuozzo, this isn't just another game; it taps deeply rooted feelings of rivalry and camaraderie. "Le match contre la France est le plus important," he explained, connecting the match's significance to the long-standing competitive history between the two nations, extended beyond rugby to football and other spheres of sport.
His perspective offers insight beyond individual stakes. Many Italian players play within the French league, adding layers to the rivalry. Capuozzo noted, "Il y a une rivalité sportive historique entre la France et l'Italie, qui va au-delà du rugby, notamment avec le foot. Il y a une concurrence sportive entre les deux pays." His comments highlight how personal relationships among players intensify the rivalry, bringing mutual respect and competitive spirit to the field.
Notably, Capuozzo finds value in his time at the prestigious Toulouse club. This experience brings both rewards and challenges. "Je peux me servir des moments de galère qu’on peut avoir avec l’Italie. En inverse, quand je suis avec l’Italie, je peux apporter et véhiculer la sérénité que je vis en club," he reflects. Through the ups and downs experienced internationally and domestically, he emphasizes the lessons learned from each environment, enriching his gameplay.
Looking toward the upcoming match, Capuozzo hopes to deliver exceptional performance, having previously scored during Italy's victory over Wales on February 8, 2025. The pressure is on, as Italy seeks its first success against France since 2013, igniting passion and determination within the squad.
This match symbolizes more than points on the scoreboard; it is charged with national pride. The vibrancy of player emotions intertwines with national identity, resulting in compelling sport. Capuozzo is poised to navigate the emotional tides and churning rivalries with tactical precision, all eyes will be on the Stadio Olimpico come four o’clock on the 23rd.
With the atmosphere charged and stakes high, rugby aficionados eagerly await to see if the Squadra Azzurra can turn the tide against Les Bleus, delivering a clash marked by not only athletic prowess but rich historical rivalry.