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 have demonstrated impressive performances throughout the tournament, winning all three of their matches and securing their spots in the final with decisive semi-final victories.
Fiji, the most decorated team in the history of the competition with five titles, boasts both the top try-scorer of the 2024 tournament and the best defensive record. Japan, on the other hand, enters the match with confidence after a strong semi-final triumph over Samoa, aided by the advantage of home support.
Prior to the main event, the stadium will feature a third-place playoff between the USA and Samoa, as both teams look to conclude their tournament on a high note.
The final will mark the 20th test meeting between Japan and Fiji, with Fiji winning 15 of the previous encounters. The last six matchups have seen Fiji victorious in five, including a 35-12 win at Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in August of last year.
Fiji last claimed the Pacific Nations Cup title in 2018, while Japan has secured it three times, most recently in 2019, making them one of the top contenders in the tournament’s history.
Fiji is currently in formidable form, having not conceded any points in the second half of their matches during the tournament. Their semi-final victory against the USA saw them excel after a challenging first half.
Japan has also been impressive, showcasing a strong lineout and scrums throughout the tournament. Their semi-final performance against Samoa was marked by a highly effective attack, scoring seven tries from limited opportunities.
The upcoming final not only carries the Pacific Nations Cup title but also impacts the World Rugby Men’s Rankings. A victory for Fiji could see them rise to ninth place if assisted by an Australia loss, while Japan has the opportunity to move ahead of Georgia into 12th place with a win.
In team news, Fiji coach Mick Byrne has made a single change to his starting lineup, while Japan’s Eddie Jones has retained his winning squad from the semi-finals, with only one alteration among the replacements.
The match will be officiated by Nic Berry, who brings experience from previous competitions, having refereed Japan and Fiji at different points in their recent histories.