The Pacific Nations Cup match today featuring the ‘Ikale Tahi of Tonga against the Flying Fijians marks a significant milestone, celebrating 100 years of Test rugby between the two neighboring nations. The historic rivalry began in 1924, and this weekend’s match will be the 95th encounter in a century of competition.
The Flying Fijians arrived in Fua’amotu on Wednesday, while the Tongan team returned from Apia over the weekend. As both teams prepare for a critical clash for leadership in the Pacific pool, there is a shared sense of enthusiasm from the Tonga Rugby Union (TRU) and the Fijian community in Tonga, who anticipate a thrilling contest.
Aisea ‘Aholelei, TRU chief executive, expressed excitement for the event, emphasizing its significance as part of the centennial celebrations. He noted, “Preparation has been good. We are ensuring that everything for the game is ready for Friday. This occasion is especially important for Tonga, as it marks 100 years of rugby with Fiji. The fact that the Fijians have not played here in nearly seven years adds to the excitement.”
Fijian community president in Tonga, Jokini Sivo, shared his eagerness to welcome the Fijian team with a traditional ‘sevusevu,’ the presentation of kava. He mentioned that around 400 Fijians in Nuku’alofa are thrilled at the chance to support their national team. “The atmosphere is filled with excitement and anticipation as the big game approaches,” he stated. Sivo highlighted the emotional significance of rugby for Pacific Islanders and the strong cultural ties between Fiji and Tonga that foster support for the Fijian team.
With preparations complete, Sivo anticipates a tightly contested match, saying, “I expect a very close game. It is difficult to predict a winner as both teams will strive to emerge victorious. The Fijians are known for their flair and agility, while Tonga will be fighting hard on home soil.”
A’Aholelei noted that the Flying Fijians are favored, especially after their recent win against Manu Samoa (42-16) and Samoa’s dominant performance against Tonga (43-17). Tonga needs a victory to secure a top position in the Pacific pool, with the top two teams progressing to the semi-finals in Tokyo next weekend.
He acknowledged that the ‘Ikale Tahi is in a rebuilding phase with a new coaching team and players. “What we have seen in the past informs us, and we understand that the ‘Ikale Tahi are new and currently facing challenges,” he said. “The Flying Fijians have proven themselves as a Tier One nation capable of competing against any top team.”
The match will be attended by Crown Prince Tupouto’a of Tonga and is set to kick-off at 3 PM Tonga time, promising an exciting atmosphere at Te’ufaiva with a packed crowd. Concurrently, Japan and the United States will face off in another crucial match, determining the top team in the Asia Pool, both having already qualified for the semi-finals.