Fiji’s head coach, Mick Byrne, expressed determination as the Flying Fijians gear up for their upcoming Test match against Spain on Sunday. This preparatory phase comes on the heels of their remarkable 24-19 victory over Wales at the Principality Stadium, marking the first time Fiji has triumphed over Wales in Cardiff.
The match was tumultuous, featuring a scrappy first half with yellow cards issued to both teams and a red card for Fiji’s Semi Radradra. Despite an early advantage for Wales, who were eager to break a nine-match losing streak, Fiji’s resilience shone through as they regrouped after halftime to secure the historic win.
Looking ahead, Byrne highlighted the importance of resetting before facing Spain, noting their impressive form in recent matches. He emphasized, “If we do that, we put ourselves in a good place to build on that momentum leading into the Ireland match.”
Byrne expressed his joy for the players, acknowledging their hard work and the significance of their victory at such a prestigious venue. He praised player of the match Caleb Muntz, who scored a try and successfully converted four penalties, remarking on his growth as a player despite only having one full Super Rugby season under his belt due to injury.
The coach also recognized the contributions of new players, emphasizing the pride associated with wearing the Fiji jersey. Furthermore, Byrne expressed hope for Fiji’s inclusion in the Nations Cup in 2026, viewing it as a crucial step towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Fiji will face Spain at 2 AM on Sunday at the José Zorrilla Stadium in Valladolid, followed by their final match against Ireland on November 24.
This victory is not only a milestone for Fiji but also a testament to their growth as a competitive force in international rugby, bringing hope for future achievements. Fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming matches as the team builds momentum towards the World Cup journey.
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