The FIJI Water Flying Fijians are set to compete against the host nation Japan in the grand final of the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup on Saturday. Japan secured their place in the final by defeating Samoa 49-27 in the second semifinal.
This upcoming match will reignite the long-standing rivalry between Fiji and Japan, which began with their first clash in 1990. Out of the 17 encounters between the two teams, Fiji has claimed victory 14 times, while Japan has triumphed in three matches.
Japan’s notable wins include a close 24-18 victory in Matsuyama in May 1994 and a 24-13 win in Lautoka in July 2011. The largest margin of victory for Japan over Fiji was a 12-point win, ending in a score of 20-8, during their match at the National Stadium in Tokyo in May 1994.
The final is scheduled to take place at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Higashiosaka at 10:05 PM Fiji Time.