Third time’s a charm: Japan beats Fiji 20-15 in the Pacific Nations Cup rugby final

TOKYO (AP) — Japan secured the Pacific Nations Cup for the first time since 2019, defeating Fiji 20-15 in Saturday's championship match at Prince Chichibu Memorial Rugby Ground. This marked the third consecutive year Japan and Fiji faced each other in the tournament final. Fiji had clinched the title in the previous two years. Japan coach Eddie Jones expressed satisfaction with the team's defensive efforts, noting that the team is not typically recognized for their defensive capabilities.

The match saw replacement back Samisoni Tua score the decisive try in the 72nd minute, breaking a 15-15 deadlock. Earlier in the tournament, Fiji had defeated Canada in the semifinals, while Japan had triumphed over the United States.