As the Rugby World Cup approaches, Wallabies captain Harry Wilson has expressed that Fiji poses a significant threat to any team in the tournament. Fiji, ranked eighth in the world, opens their campaign against Spain in Newcastle, followed by matches against Canada and powerhouse Argentina in Adelaide. Given their strong standing, Fiji is expected to secure a spot in the top two of Pool C, paving the way for a place in the knockout stage.
The potential matchups in the knockout rounds are intriguing. Should they emerge second in their pool after Argentina, Fiji could face Wales if the Welsh team finishes second in their respective group. A victory could then set up a challenging quarter-final against France, heightening the stakes for Fiji as they aim for their first World Cup semi-final.
Wilson emphasized the intimidating factor of Fiji’s talent, noting their key players like Josua Tuisova and Jiuta Wainiqolo. “When they get all their internationals back, they’re one of the best teams in the world,” he stated, acknowledging the immense “x-factor” that makes Fiji formidable. Indeed, any opponent should be cautious when preparing to face them in the knockout rounds.
As they gear up for the 2027 World Cup, participation in the inaugural Nations Championship will allow Fiji to continue refining their skills. Recent performances, including a notable victory over Australia in the 2023 World Cup quarter-finals—an achievement they hadn’t accomplished since 1954—underscore their growing stature in world rugby.
Fiji narrowly exited the tournament with a close 30-24 loss to England in the quarter-finals, and their competitive spirit was on display in a tight Test match against Australia, where Wilson’s last-minute try secured a slim victory for the Wallabies. This emphasizes the progress Fiji has made and their potential to disrupt traditional rugby powerhouses in the years to come.
Meanwhile, Fiji’s Pacific rivals—Tonga and Samoa—face a tougher road as they look to advance beyond the group stage. Tonga, currently ranked 18th, will kick off their campaign against England, followed by matches against Wales and Zimbabwe, while Samoa, ranked 19th, will compete against Japan, the USA, and France. With only a few spots available for third-placed teams to advance, their quest for the knockout stage presents significant challenges.
As the Rugby World Cup nears, Fiji stands poised to surprise and impress, making them a team to watch closely in the upcoming season.
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