MANU Samoa revitalized its World Rugby Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup campaign with a decisive 43-17 victory over Ikale Tahi Tonga in Apia on Friday. This bonus-point win places Samoa in the upper tier of Pool A, tying with Fiji at five points, although Fiji has played one additional game.
The match was particularly significant as Samoa Rugby celebrated its 100th anniversary as a test-playing rugby nation, enhancing its impressive record to 20 consecutive wins against Tonga in Apia, a streak that spans 44 years. Historically, Samoa has dominated the rivalry, winning 39 of 67 encounters since their first match in 1926, with Tonga securing 26 wins and two matches ending in draws.
Samoa displayed overwhelming strength on home turf during the professional era. Head coach Mase Mahonri Schwalger implemented six changes and one positional adjustment after the team’s initial round loss to Fiji, which ended 42-16.
Tonga, playing its first Pacific Nations Cup match of the year, initially looked strong but fell behind when Samoa scored first with a converted try by outside center Stacey Ili. Another try followed from Moana Pasifika recruit Tuna Tuitama, assisted by halfback Melani Matavao, increasing the lead to 14-0. A penalty converted just before halftime resulted in a commanding 17-0 lead for Samoa.
In the second half, Tonga attempted to rally but was hampered by fundamental mistakes and defensive lapses, allowing Samoa to add another 26 points to their tally. As Samoa positions itself firmly in second place, Tonga now finds itself facing a must-win scenario against the FIJI Water Flying Fijians, whom they will compete against in Nuku’alofa on September 6.
The third-placed team from the Pacific pool will go head-to-head with the third-placed team from the Asia pool, which includes Japan, Canada, and the United States. The top two teams from each pool are set to clash in the semi-finals in Tokyo.