The Flying Fijians secured the top position in the Pacific pool of the 2024 Pacific Nations Cup after a commanding 50-19 victory over Tonga in Nuku’alofa on Friday. This win propels them into the semi-finals scheduled for next weekend in Tokyo, where they will face either Japan or the USA from the Asia pool. Manu Samoa will join Fiji as the runner-up from the Pacific.
Fiji’s captain Tevita Ikanivere, who contributed a try during the match, emphasized the need for discipline to secure the win. He acknowledged that they allowed Tonga to get back into the game midway through the first half and stressed the importance of maintaining their composure.
“We discussed discipline, especially towards the end of the first half when we allowed Tonga to make a comeback,” Ikanivere stated. “We had a bye week to prepare for this match, knowing it would be tough playing on Tonga’s home ground.”
Tonga’s captain, Ben Tameifuna, praised his team’s effort and expressed gratitude for their determination. He noted the young team’s potential for growth, highlighting the match as an important experience for them.
“It is always challenging to play against our Fijian brothers,” he remarked. “This serves as a stepping stone for the ‘Ikale Tahi. Our goal is to provide opportunities for our younger players as they gain valuable experience.”
Fiji took an early 19-0 lead thanks to three quick tries within the first quarter. However, Tongan momentum surged after Fiji was temporarily reduced to 14 players when Fijian center Adrea Cocagi received a yellow card, later upgraded to a red card.
Tonga capitalized on the situation, with flyhalf Patrick Pellegrini’s clever chip leading to a try for inside center Fetuli Paea. As the game progressed, Tonga continued to apply pressure, and Pellegrini eventually scored, leveling the match at 19-19.
Fiji regained their footing close to halftime, winning a lineout penalty that allowed flanker Elia Canakaivata to score, putting Fiji ahead 26-19 going into the break.
The second half was tightly contested, but Fiji began to dominate. Muntz extended their lead with a penalty, followed by a try from replacement player Inia Tabuavou. With the score at 36-19, Fiji maintained control, culminating in further tries that pushed the score to 50-19.
The match was witnessed by Crown Prince Tupouto’a and approximately 4,000 supporters, marking a significant moment in the celebration of 100 years of rugby between Fiji and Tonga, as it was the first Test match between the two nations back in 1924.
The victory also served as a birthday celebration for captain Ikanivere, who received a special cake from the Fijian community after the match. Both teams are set to travel to Japan on Monday, with Fiji participating in the semi-finals and Tonga facing Canada in the fifth-place playoff.