Japan beat Fiji to win Pacific Nations Cup
Ben Gunter was one of the try scorer for Japan
©Nations Championship via Getty
Fiji 15-20 Japan, Tokyo
Japan claimed the Pacific Nations Cup 2026 title with a thrilling 20-15 win over Fiji at Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo.
The Brave Blossoms denied Fiji a third successive crown and secured their fourth Pacific Nations Cup title overall. It was also Japan’s first title in the competition since 2019.
Fiji scored first-half tries through Virimi Vakatawa and captain Tevita Ikanivere, but Japan fought back through Mamoru Harada, Player of the Match Ben Gunter and replacement Samisoni Tua.
Fiji Strike First In Tokyo
Fiji made the early breakthrough when Vakatawa used his strength to beat several Japanese defenders and score from close range.
The Flying Fijians were then reduced to 14 players when prop Mesake Doge was shown a yellow card. Japan took advantage as their forwards built pressure near the line, allowing hooker Harada to touch down.
Fiji regained the lead before half-time through Ikanivere, who scored from a well-executed lineout move. The defending champions went into the break 12-10 ahead.
Gunter Brings Japan Back
In the 58th minute, Shinobu Fujiwara delivered a sharp pass to Gunter, who crashed over from close range to put Japan ahead.
Fiji responded through Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, whose penalty tied the match at 15-15 and set up a tense final quarter.
Tua Scores Decisive Try
The winning moment came in the 72nd minute. Tua showed excellent footwork inside the left channel and crossed for the decisive try, sending the home crowd into celebration.
Fiji pushed to respond in the closing stages, but Japan held firm to complete a famous win and end Fiji’s run as Pacific Nations Cup champions.
In the third-place play-off earlier in the day, Canada beat the United States 19-16, with Jesse Kilgour scoring his first international try.
