Eddie Jones expresses confidence that “good experience and toughness” will carry Japan to a victory in the Pacific Nations Cup final against Fiji. This final marks Japan's third consecutive attempt, having previously fallen short against Fiji in both the 2024 and 2025 finals. This year, the Brave Blossoms are looking to capitalize on their home advantage in Tokyo to secure a win.
After a robust start defeating the United States 63-14 in the semi-finals, Jones made strategic adjustments to his lineup for the final clash. Notably, Faulua Makisi has been elevated to start as No. 8, which shifts Jack Cornelsen from back-row to lock, while Michael Stolberg will now come off the bench. Additionally, Tomoki Osada steps in on the left wing as Japan aims for a more dynamic attack.
“Our aim this weekend is to win the final and we’re 100 per cent concentrated on that. It’s our third final in a row so it’s a great opportunity for this team to grow. We have got good experience and toughness in the team, and we’re looking forward to a really physical and fast performance against Fiji.”
The Japan squad for this crucial game is seasoned, featuring players such as 45-cap midfielder Dylan Riley and 35-cap captain Naoto Saito. Their collective experience is hoped to be a decisive factor in overcoming the formidable Fijians.
Fiji, on the other hand, is not lagging in preparation. Following their 45-29 semi-final victory over Canada, changes have been made to their lineup by interim head coach Senirusi Seruvakula. Caleb Muntz is set to play at No. 10, with Isiah Armstrong-Ravula moving to full-back and Isikeli Rabitu taking a seat on the bench.
“We know that Japan is going to be very strong on their home game especially after they recently had two Test matches against Australia and a warm-up match against Canada before the start of the PNC.”
The teams are announced as follows:
Japan: 1. Sojiro Otsuka 2. Mamoru Harada 3. Shuhei Takeuchi 4. Jack Cornelsen 5. Harry Hockings 6. Ben Gunter 7. Kanji Shimokawa 8. Faulua Makisi 9. Naoto Saito (c) 10. Ryunosuke Ito 11. Tomoki Osada 12. Yuya Hirose 13. Dylan Riley 14. Inoke Burua 15. Sam Greene
Substitutes: 16. Kenji Sato 17. Sena Kimura 18. Takumi Inaba 19. Michael Stolberg 20. Esei Haangana 21. Tiennan Costley 22. Shinobu Fujiwara 23. Samisoni Tua
Fiji: 1. Peni Ravai 2. Tevita Ikanivere (c) 3. Mesake Doge 4. Mesake Vocevoce 5. Temo Mayanavanua 6. Kitione Salawa 7. Motikiai Murray 8. Elia Canakaivata 9. Frank Lomani 10. Caleb Muntz 11. Manasa Mataele 12. Tuioraki Samusamuvodre 13. Virimi Vakatawa 14. Joji Nasova 15. Isiah Armstrong-Ravula
Substitutes: 16. Kavaia Tagivetaua 17. Vilikesa Nairau 18. Sameula Tawake 19. Isoa Tuwai 20. Penaia Cakobau 21. Sam Wye 22. Isikeli Rabitu 23. Isaac Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens
The final promises intense competition, with both teams well-prepared and determined to claim the championship. The match is scheduled to take place at Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo, with a kickoff at 19:05 local time. Jordan Way will officiate the match, assisted by Damon Murphy and Morgan White, while Matt Rodden serves as the TMO. Fans worldwide can catch the action live across various platforms including RugbyPass, DISNEY+, and Sky NZ among others.
