The highly anticipated Pacific Nations Cup match featuring Tonga’s ‘Ikale Tahi and Fiji’s Flying Fijians is set to take place today, marking a century of Test rugby between the neighboring nations. This will be the 95th encounter since their initial matchup in 1924.
The Flying Fijians arrived in Fua’amotu on Wednesday, while the Tonga team returned from Apia over the weekend. Both teams are gearing up for a competitive showdown as they vie for top positions in the Pacific pool. Officials and fans alike are excited about this milestone event. Aisea ‘Aholelei, chief executive of the Tonga Rugby Union, highlighted the significance of the match, emphasizing the strong historical ties between the two countries and the pride of hosting a tier one nation like Fiji.
Fijian supporters in Tonga are eager to cheer for their team, with community president Jokini Sivo expressing excitement among the local Fijian population. Nearly 400 Fijians in Nuku’alofa are preparing to welcome their team with a traditional ‘sevusevu,’ a kava presentation. Sivo expects a closely contested match, given the historical and cultural connections that enhance the rivalry.
Despite the anticipation, ‘Aholelei noted that Fiji comes into the game as the favorite, having recently defeated Manu Samoa. Tonga, seeking a victory to advance in the tournament, has been undergoing a rebuild with new players and coaching staff.
Crown Prince Tupouto’a, the heir to the Tongan throne, will be in attendance, while the match is scheduled to kick off at 3 PM Tonga time, expected to draw a lively and packed crowd at Te’ufaiva. Concurrently, Japan and the United States will face off in another key match to determine the top team in the Asia Pool, with both teams having already qualified for the semi-finals.