Italy 22
United States 10
Italy defeated the United States 22-10 to open play Sunday on the second day of the Rugby World Cup at Whangārei.
The Group B match always seemed likely to be one of the closest in the group rounds. Italy are fifth and the United States sixth in the world rankings.
Italy came into the match on a high after beating third-ranked France last month. The United States had recent wins over Australia and Scotland but sustained a heavy loss to England.
The United States scored the opening try after only four minutes through Hallie Taufoou who crashed through tackles near the goal line after a pick and go attack.