Fijiana XV Set for World Cup Opener Against Canada in Pool B Showdown
The Vodafone Fijiana XV are gearing up for a David-versus-Goliath challenge in their Women’s Rugby World Cup opener, taking on a Canada side rated No. 2 in the world. The game is scheduled for Sunday at 4:30am, with the venue listed as York Community Stadium in York, England. Ticket demand has been enormous, with more than 330,000 tickets already sold as fans flood in to support Fiji’s World Cup year. Prices start at £5 for children and £10 for adults.
Head coach Ioan Cunningham has warned that Canada represents a formidable test, but he insists Fiji’s recent growth is translating into world-class potential. “We’ve shown fantastic growth over the last couple of months,” Cunningham said. “We want to put a performance on the field and see what happens if we perform right.” The camp has emphasized a blend of Fiji’s sevens pace with a tightened 15s structure, designed to sustain pressure over 80 minutes against elite opposition.
Leading the team is Alfreda Fisher Maria, a 21-year-old captain who becomes the youngest ever to wear Fiji’s armband. Three years ago, Fisher watched Fiji’s first-ever Women’s World Cup pool win against South Africa on television; now she will lead her teammates onto the field in search of another historic upset. “I’m excited, ready to take on the big stage with big teams, and hopefully our fans come out in numbers to support us,” Fisher said. “We are up for the match and nothing is impossible. We will play Fijian rugby.”
The squad, a 32-player blend of Drua Women’s talents, sevens veterans, and overseas-based players, is built to stay competitive for the full 80 minutes. Fiji’s recent warm-up highlights include a tight 31-24 loss to the USA and a productive 34-12 scrimmage win over Manusina Samoa, both used to sharpen combinations and test depth. The team’s preparation has also involved tests against northern-hemisphere-style opponents to tune transitions, decision-making, and defensive organization.
Analysts and coaches alike spotlight several key areas as Fiji prepares for Canada and the rest of Pool B, which also includes Scotland and Wales. Expect a sevens-to-15s transition that keeps ball movement rapid and backline threats alive, paired with a disciplined set piece and careful territory management. Leadership depth and a spine of experienced players around the captain are expected to help Fiji maintain composure in pressure moments.
Momentum around Fiji’s World Cup push is buoyed by the depth of talent and a clear plan to marry speed with structure. If the Fijiana can execute clean ball, sustain their running game, and refine their breakdown, they have a legitimate chance to trouble higher-ranked teams and inspire a new generation of women’s rugby players in Fiji and the broader Pacific region.
Summary
– Fiji opens their World Cup campaign in Pool B against Canada, with Scotland and Wales also in the group.
– Alfreda Fisher Maria captains a 32-player squad blending Drua stars, sevens players, and overseas-based talent.
– Preparations included a 34-12 win over Manusina Samoa and a close warm-up against the USA.
– The team seeks to balance Fiji’s pace and flair with improved discipline, set-piece stability, and smart game management.
– Momentum and a growing talent pool point to a hopeful campaign that could upset stronger nations and elevate women’s rugby in Fiji.
What to watch
– Sevens-to-15s integration: rapid ball movement and backline speed from players with sevens backgrounds.
– Set-piece and discipline: scrums, lineouts, and exit plays will be decisive against top-tier packs.
– Leadership and cohesion: a deep squad aims to maintain composure and decision-making across 80 minutes.
– Tactical balance: Fiji’s pace combined with a more structured kicking game and defense to manage tempo.
A hopeful note
The Fijiana arrive in England with momentum, depth, and a clear identity. If they execute their plan, they can deliver exciting rugby, challenge higher-ranked teams, and continue to raise the profile of women’s rugby in Fiji and the wider Pacific region.
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