Fijiana scores historic victory over Japan – FBC News

(Source: Fiji Rugby/Facebook)

In a turnaround performance last week, the Fijiana XV redeemed themselves with a convincing 24-15 win over Japan at Churchill Park.

The win is also their first ever against Japan in history.

The Fijiana team showed a strong improvement in their performance, with a more clinical and also matching the Sakura XV.

From the start, Fiji showed their intentions with a strong start, taking their chances early on.

A well-executed set piece from a scrum deep in Japanese territory saw winger Repeka Tove cross the try line to set the tone for Fiji.

The Fijiana XV continued to push forward relentlessly and further extended their lead as winger Merewairita Naivosa took the lead twice.

Naivosa’s tries highlighted Fiji’s dominance in both execution and strategy, taking the score to 12–0 in the first half.

However, Japan fought back, with Captain Iroha Nagata leading the way.

In the 21st minute, a determined driving maul from the Sakura

The second half saw both teams struggle to gain momentum, marked by occasional errors that disrupted their rhythm.

Japan managed to reduce Fiji’s lead with a penalty, keeping the match within reach at 17-10.

Still, Fiji’s defense proved formidable, repeatedly stopping Japan’s attempts to level the score.

The Fijiana

Despite Japan’s spirited efforts, including a late second try from Nagata, Fiji’s resilience and tactical discipline ultimately secured victory.