FIJI Water Flying Fijians to Face Japan in Pacific Nations Cup Final

The FIJI Water Flying Fijians will face off against the hosts Japan in the grand final of the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup following Japan’s 49-27 victory over Samoa in the second semi-final.

The upcoming final will see Fiji and Japan renew their rivalry, which dates back to their first encounter in 1990. Out of 17 matches played between the two teams, Fiji has emerged victorious in 14, while Japan has won three. Japan’s notable wins include a 24-18 victory in Matsuyama in May 1994 and a 24-13 triumph in Lautoka in July 2011. The largest margin of victory for Japan was a 12-point win, 20-8, in May 1994 at the National Stadium in Tokyo.

Following the semi-final match, FIJI Water Flying Fijians Coach Mick Byrne addressed the media, reflecting on his team’s performance and the challenge ahead. Byrne expressed his enthusiasm for coaching Fiji, highlighting the unique qualities of the team. “It was one of the reasons why I was excited to take on this role,” Byrne said. “They are a unique rugby team. They’ve grown up playing rugby from the minute they can walk, and the way they play rugby back in the islands is exceptional.”

Byrne emphasized his commitment to maintaining and enhancing the team’s strengths. “One of the things that I would like to continue is our ability to be patient and stay within our systems, continuing to play our game and improving all the time,” he added. “I’ve never had the opportunity to coach a team with so much talent, and we are going to continue to grow.”

Captain Tevita Ikanivere also spoke about the semi-final, expressing regret over receiving a yellow card but pride in how his team performed while he was sidelined. “First of all, it’s not very good for me to get a yellow card. As a captain, I’m not supposed to be leading like that. I’m proud of the boys and how they kept themselves when I was out of the game,” Ikanivere stated.

The final will be held at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Higashiosaka on Saturday, September 21st. The day will also feature the 3rd place play-off between the USA and Samoa, kicking off at 7:00 PM Fiji Time, with the highly anticipated final between Fiji and Japan scheduled for 10:05 PM Fiji Time.