Fiji claimed their seventh Pacific Nations Cup title with a thrilling 33-27 victory over Japan in Salt Lake City, Utah. In a match full of momentum swings, the Flying Fijians fought back from 10-0 down to unleash a breathtaking first-half blitz that turned the game on its head.
After Japan’s Hayate Era opened the scoring and Seungsin Lee added points, Fiji roared to life with four stunning tries in just 19 minutes. Mesake Vocevoce sparked the comeback, followed by Eroni Mawi and Inia Tabuavou, before captain Tevita Ikanivere powered over. On the stroke of halftime, Joji Nasova produced a solo masterpiece, beating defenders from halfway to cap Fiji’s dominant surge.
Nasova added another after the break, but Japan refused to fold. Ichigo Nakakusu and Era struck back, and with Fiji hit by two yellow cards, Eddie Jones’s Brave Blossoms narrowed the gap to just six points.
Under immense pressure, Fiji’s defense held firm, showing grit and composure to see out the contest. Skipper Ikanivere praised his teammates’ resilience, while coach Mick Byrne hailed their fight under adversity. Japan captain Warner Dearns and Jones lauded their side’s spirit but admitted Fiji’s explosive first half proved decisive.
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| ASIA SPORTS CHANNEL |
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