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Fiji and Japan both announced their arrival in the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup with commanding performances, topping Pools A and B, respectively, following dominant victories in round two.
Japan asserted dominance with a 57–15 thrashing of Canada — their largest-ever win against the Maple Leafs, eclipsing the previous 46–8 margin from 2009. Ranked 11 places higher, Eddie Jones’s Brave Blossoms scored seven second-half tries and unleashed 33 unanswered points over 20 minutes, underscoring their growing firepower. They now lead the all-time head-to-head record 16–8 over Canada, having won the last six meetings.
A historic note: Warner Dearns, at just 23, became Japan’s youngest-ever captain and scored a pivotal try shortly before half-time to swing momentum his country’s way.
Amato Fakatava laid down an early marker with a try in the third minute and added a second after the break as Japan’s pack took control. Canada initially held firm and levelled the scores through a well-taken try by Siôn Parry and a Peter Nelson penalty, but the Brave Blossoms’ speed and precision eventually told as the match opened up.
It was a day to remember for Japan’s newcomers, with five players making their first Test starts and another four earning debut caps. Full-back Sam Greene stood out with a sharp try and several incisive runs, while blindside flanker Ben Gunter brought physicality and edge throughout. Wing Kippei Ishida added late gloss with two well-finished tries, showing sharp footwork and anticipation.
Canada, who slipped to second in Pool B after last weekend’s bonus-point win over the USA, showed flashes of quality but couldn’t match Japan’s intensity in the second half. Captain Lucas Rumball led by example in defence with a high tackle count, and Shane O’Leary, back in the side for the first time since 2019, was composed at full-back. Ultimately, though, the visitors struggled to live with Japan’s tempo and attacking variety.
Fiji, meanwhile, powered past Tonga 32–10 in Suva, claiming a bonus-point victory to top Pool A. Despite a lightning-quick early try from Tonga’s Augustine Pulu, Fiji rallied through composure and class. Caleb Muntz held the boot with precision, orchestrating the game and slotting over three conversions and a penalty.
Fiji’s forward dominance was clear. Tevita Ikanivere crashed over soon after half time, and when Siosiua Moala was sent off, Fiji capitalised through a rolling maul try by Taniela Rakuro to secure the bonus-point triumph.
Next weekend's action sees Manu Samoa host Fiji on Saturday in what will no doubt be a feisty Pacific Island battle before the USA, desperately in need of a win following their opening round loss against Canada, are at home to Japan on Sunday.