The Flying Fijians, despite being the reigning champions of the Pacific Nations Cup, are entering Sunday’s final in Osaka as underdogs against Japan. The Japanese team, coached by Eddie Jones, is riding high following a convincing 49-27 victory over Manu Samoa in the semi-finals held in Tokyo on Sunday night.
In that match, Japan showcased an impressive display of attacking rugby, scoring six tries against Samoa’s three. Under the leadership of Jones, Japan is making significant strides in their campaign. The coach has emphasized the necessity of winning the final against Fiji and stated that his team must enhance their defensive performance around the ruck to secure their first trophy since 2019.
“As much as we’re pleased to be in the final, our only aim is to win the final,” Jones remarked. He acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Fiji and expressed confidence in the preparation his team would undertake in the week leading up to the match.
Japan dominated the first half of their semi-final, scoring four tries while Samoa managed just one. Dylan Riley opened the scoring for Japan early on, capitalizing on Player-of-the-Match Seungsin Lee’s deft kick. Samoa suffered a setback when wing Elisapeta Alofipo received a yellow card for a foul tackle, allowing Japan to score a penalty try. Lee’s accurate kick-pass enabled Tomoki Osada to score Japan’s third try soon after, and Lee himself secured a try before halftime thanks to quick and effective phase play.
Despite being under pressure for a significant portion of the first half, Samoa demonstrated resilience. Ex-sevens player Tuna Tuitama scored while his team was a man down, breaking through Japan’s defense. Two penalties from Rodney Iona kept Samoa close at halftime.
In the second half, Lee continued to shine, assisting in Japan’s fifth try. Samoa attempted to rally, with halfback Melani Matavao scoring to narrow the score to 35-20. However, Japan maintained their offensive momentum, with Shinobu Fujiwara scoring another try, and they soon struck back after Samoa’s Lalomilo Lalomilo countered for a try of his own.
Even as fatigue set in, Japan executed a well-orchestrated move to set up Taichi Takahashi for a straightforward try, which was successfully converted by Lee, who has maintained a perfect record during this tournament.
Samoa’s captain, Theo McFarland, attributed his team’s loss to indiscipline rather than lack of effort, citing consistent errors and handling issues as critical factors that hindered their performance throughout the match.