The Flying Fijians, despite being the reigning champions of the Pacific Nations Cup, will enter Sunday’s final against Japan in Osaka as the underdogs. Japan, under the leadership of coach Eddie Jones, is coming off a decisive 49-27 victory over Manu Samoa in the semi-finals held in Tokyo.
The Japanese team showcased a dynamic style of running and attacking rugby, scoring six tries compared to Samoa’s three. With their recent performance, Japan is making significant strides in Jones’ reclamation project for the team. The coach has set the expectation for his players to secure a win against Fiji in the final.
Jones emphasized the need for his team to enhance their defensive strategies around the ruck to have a shot at winning the trophy for the first time since 2019. “While we’re satisfied to be in the final, our primary goal is to win the final,” he remarked. “We will face a high-quality team in Fiji, and we are looking forward to a week of solid preparation.”
Japan dominated the first half, scoring four tries while Samoa managed just one. Dylan Riley opened the scoring early, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Samoa. Shortly after, Samoa’s Elisapeta Alofipo received a yellow card for an illegal tackle, leading to a penalty try for Japan. A well-placed kick-pass from Seungsin Lee set up another try for Tomoki Osada, followed by a try from Lee himself just before halftime.
Despite being under pressure, former champions Samoa fought back. Tuna Tuitama scored during a crucial moment when they were a player down, and Rodney Iona kicked two penalties to keep the game close at the interval.
Lee broke through early in the second half, assisting Kanji Shimokawa for Japan’s fifth try. Samoa responded when Melani Matavao scored, narrowing the deficit to 35-20. However, Japan’s Shinobu Fujiwara extended the lead shortly after, and Lee’s scoring continued without a miss from the conversion line.
Samoa’s captain Theo McFarland acknowledged that indiscipline was a significant factor in their defeat. “It wasn’t a lack of effort,” he stated. “However, our discipline in the first 20 minutes was poor, and we made too many handling errors. Our set piece also let us down in the second half, which hindered our momentum in the game.”