The ‘Ikale Tahi faced a disappointing defeat against Romania, losing 25-15 after leading 15-11 for most of the match. The game, held in Bucharest, saw the Tongan team unravel in the last 20 minutes as they made critical mistakes that allowed their opponents to capitalize and score 14 points, securing the win.
Despite a promising start, which included a strong performance in their previous encounter against Romania last year, head coach Tevita Tu’ifua expressed disappointment with the team’s performance, attributing the loss to basic errors that proved costly. A pivotal moment came when winger Tevita Manumua gained the lead for Romania with a try, following a defensive miscue by the Tongans. Moments later, Tonga had opportunities to reclaim the advantage but failed to convert, ultimately succumbing to Romania’s effective kicking that sealed their victory.
This match is part of Tonga’s preparation for the 2027 Rugby World Cup qualifiers, and Tu’ifua emphasized that the team would learn from this experience and move forward. The inclusion of young players aims to foster growth and development in the squad.
In contrast, the Flying Fijians have bolstered their lineup with experienced European players like captain Waisea Nayacalevu and centre Semi Radradra for an upcoming match against Wales in Cardiff. This strategic move speaks to their ambition and desire to perform strongly in their international fixtures.
As Tonga looks to regroup and prepare for their next match, there is optimism that the lessons learned will strengthen the team overall. Their journey towards the World Cup offers a reminder of the resilience and growth found in sports, making them a team to watch in the coming months.
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