Pacific Nations Cup: Captain Expects a Thrilling Clash in Suva Opener

Next Friday, rugby fans in Fiji can anticipate a thrilling spectacle as the FIJI Water Flying Fijians face off against Manu Samoa in the opening match of the 2024 Pacific Nations Cup. The highly anticipated encounter will take place at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, promising a fierce contest between these Pacific Island rivals.

The storied rivalry between Fiji and Samoa spans over a century, with the teams having clashed on 55 occasions since their first encounter in 1924. On that occasion, the touring Fijians emerged victorious against the Samoans at Apia Park. However, Samoa secured a memorable win in their first Pacific Nations Cup meeting in 2007, with an 8-3 victory at home. This initial triumph set the stage for what has become a fierce and enduring rivalry in the tournament.

Historically, Fiji holds a slight edge in their Pacific Nations Cup encounters with Samoa, having won 9 of the 15 matches between the two sides, compared to Samoa’s 6 victories. The Flying Fijians will be keen to build on their recent success after securing a win at Apia Park last year, aiming for back-to-back victories against their Pacific counterparts.

As the excitement builds for the upcoming clash, the Flying Fijians have a new leader at the helm. Hooker Tevita Ikanivere has been named captain for the match, and he expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm for the role. “I’m honored and humbled to be selected as Captain for this tour,” Ikanivere said. “It’s a great privilege and something I didn’t anticipate. I’m looking forward to the opportunities and challenges ahead, especially with a lot of new players joining the team. We aim to create some history together.”

Ikanivere acknowledged the physical nature of the match against Manu Samoa, noting that the Samoans will be eager to avenge their defeat from last year. “Having played against them for several years, I know it will be a physical battle. No team likes to lose on their home ground, and I’m sure Samoa will come out with a strong desire to bounce back from last year’s loss,” he added.

The 2024 Pacific Nations Cup features two pools: Fiji is grouped with Tonga and Samoa in Pool A, while Japan, Canada, and the USA comprise Pool B. The match between the Flying Fijians and Manu Samoa is set to kick off at 6 p.m. next Friday, marking Fiji’s only home game of the year.

Tickets for this highly anticipated match are now on sale, giving fans the chance to support their national team in what promises to be an exhilarating start to the Pacific Nations Cup.