Fiji and Japan will meet in a repeat of last year’s Pacific Nations Cup final after both powered through their semi-finals in the USA on Sunday.
Kalaveti Ravouvou bagged a hat-trick in Fiji’s 63-10 demolition of Canada in Denver, while Eddie Jones’ Japan ran riot in a 62-24 win over Tonga, scoring seven tries.
“They will be fast. We’ll be ready. We’ll prepare for that,” Fiji coach Mick Byrne said. “We’ve got a few things to focus on ourselves. We know we’re going to be in for a battle next week.”
Fiji rolled over Japan 41-17 in last year’s final.
“Fiji beat us pretty easily last year so we’ve got a lot to work on,” Japan coach Eddie Jones said. “And a short period of time to get ready.”
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Fiji cruised to a 43-3 half-time lead through two tries from Taniela Rakuro and one each by Mesake Vocevoce, Etonia Waqa, Ravouvou and Eroni Mawi plus Kemueli Valetini’s penalty and five conversions.
Both teams will now turn their focus to Salt Lake City, where the Pacific Nations Cup champions will be crowned on Saturday.
All four semi-finalists are qualified for the 2027 World Cup in Australia and 2031 World Cup host United States qualified as well by beating Samoa 29-13 in the fifth-place match.
The US Eagles advanced after failing to qualify for the 2023 World Cup in France.
© Agence France-Presse
Photo: Masterpress/Getty Images
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