The FIJI Water Flying Fijians are primed for a challenging match against France this Sunday in Bordeaux, part of the Autumn Nations Series. The Fijian team will look to draw on past experiences, including their historic win over France in 2018, when they upset the French with a 21-14 victory in Paris. However, their most recent encounter saw France avenge that defeat, winning 34-17 during a warm-up match ahead of the Rugby World Cup earlier in 2023.
Both teams enter this matchup looking to rebound from defeats sustained the previous week, with Fiji losing 38-18 to England and France falling 32-17 to South Africa. Assistant coach Aaron Mauger emphasized the importance of the 2018 win as a source of inspiration for the current squad, reiterating the goal of performing admirably and adding to the legacy of Fijian rugby.
Viliame Mata, a veteran player from the 2018 squad, expressed confidence that the team can replicate that success, stating, “It gives us the confidence that this group can do it again. It’s doable.” The Flying Fijians are currently preparing at the Bordeaux rugby union facilities, fine-tuning their strategies to face the formidable French side.
Mauger remarked on the productive nature of their training sessions, highlighting the need for tactical execution and discipline as pivotal for overcoming the French challenge. Several players, including key contributor Josua Tuisova, are keenly aware of the physicality France brings to the match and are strategizing to counteract that intensity.
The team’s upcoming clash on Sunday, November 16, at 8:10 AM (Fiji time) not only presents a rigorous test for the Flying Fijians but also an invaluable opportunity to showcase their resilience and competitive spirit on an international stage. With passionate fans rallying behind them, the Flying Fijians remain hopeful of a triumphant performance that could inspire unity and pride in Fijian rugby.
This match represents more than just a contest against a top-tier opponent; it is an opportunity for Fiji to highlight their growth, resilience, and commitment to the game, as they continue to build towards future tournaments like the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
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