This Saturday, all eyes will be on Hanazono Rugby Stadium as Japan hosts Fiji in the final of the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup 2024. Both teams arrive at the championship match with impressive records, having each secured three wins in the tournament and advanced with dominating victories in the semi-finals.
Fiji, the most successful team in the history of the competition with five titles, boasts the tournament’s leading try-scorer and has demonstrated a formidable defense. Japan, playing on home turf, heads into the match with confidence, coming off a strong semi-final win against Samoa.
Before the main event, USA and Samoa will compete in the third-place playoff at the same venue.
The final on September 21, 2024, marks the 20th test meeting between Fiji and Japan, with Fiji claiming 15 wins in the previous encounters and Japan winning four. The last six matches, however, have seen Fiji come out on top five times, including a 35-12 win last August.
Fiji’s recent run has seen them not concede any points in the second halves of their matches, maintaining control against the USA and showcasing the talent of players like Elia Canakaivata, who is also the tournament’s top try-scorer.
On the other hand, Japan’s performance under coach Eddie Jones has significantly improved, particularly following June and July’s disappointing tests. Japan has excelled in set pieces, winning all of their lineouts in the tournament so far and displaying clinical finishing in their semi-final against Samoa.
In addition to the title, both teams will also compete for World Rugby Men’s Rankings points. Fiji has a chance to climb to ninth in the rankings if they win, while Japan could move into 12th or drop to 14th, depending on the outcomes of their match and the USA-Samoa game.
Fiji has made one change to their starting lineup, while Japan remains largely unchanged, introducing uncapped player Junta Hamano to the squad. Both teams are eager to put on an attacking display in the final, promising an exciting clash for fans.
The match will be officiated by Nic Berry, marking his second Pacific Nations Cup match this year. He has a history with both teams, having refereed Japan three times with two victories and one loss, while Fiji seeks their first win under his stewardship.