FIJI Water Flying Fijians Coach Mick Byrne says Japan will be fast, but they will be ready as they have prepared for the Pacific Nations Cup final.
Byrne says they have got a few things to focus on themselves and they know they are going to be in for a battle this Sunday.
Cherry Blossoms coach, Eddie Jones says Fiji beat them pretty easily last year.
Fiji rolled over Japan 41-17 in last year’s final.
Jones says they have got a lot to work on, and a short period of time to get ready.
The Flying Fijians and Japan will meet in a repeat of last year’s Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup final after both powered through their semi-finals in the USA on Monday.
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.
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.
The Flying Fijians play the Cherry Blossoms at 1.35pm Sunday at America First Field, Salt Lake City, Utah.
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.
Source: Agence France-Presse
