There can be no room for romance in Rome. The title is such a long shot that this lunchtime visit to the Eternal City becomes an investment in the next generation of Irish players and the launch of a new era.
Aled Walters, Ireland's director of athletic performance, unintentionally revealed during a press conference that player Caelan Doris sat out training, indicating possible concerns.
The Swan Bar, a historic Dublin establishment run by Sean Lynch for decades, now transitions to the stewardship of his son, Ronan Lynch, ensuring its legendary legacy continues.