(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Japan Defeats USA 47-21 to Reach Pacific Nations Cup Semi-Finals
Japan secured a convincing 47-21 victory over the USA to book their place in the Pacific Nations Cup semi-finals in Denver, Colorado, next weekend. The win also leaves the USA facing a fifth-place play-off against Samoa, with a spot in Rugby World Cup 2027 at stake.
Amato Fakatava and captain Warner Dearns both scored twice, while Kanji Shimokawa and winger Kippei Ishida added crucial tries. Japan’s high-paced, physical play dominated from the start, giving them a 28-14 halftime lead and the try-scoring bonus.
USA fought back with a first-half double by Kapeli Pifeleti, keeping the Eagles competitive, but Japan’s forwards consistently overpowered their opponents. Replacement Payton Telea scored late for the USA, rewarding their efforts.
Team Reactions
USA captain Jason Damm praised his side’s progress despite the loss:
“It’s a step forward from our game against Canada. We’ll focus on the next challenge against Samoa and keep building.”
Coach Scott Lawrence emphasized the need for continued development:
“We are building the robustness needed to compete at the top level.”
Japan captain Warner Dearns highlighted the importance of defense:
“Our first 20 minutes set the tone. We’ll need our forwards to perform well against Tonga in the semi-finals.”
Upcoming Matches
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Japan vs Tonga – Semi-final in Denver
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Fiji vs Canada – Semi-final in Denver
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USA vs Samoa – Fifth-place play-off, with a Rugby World Cup 2027 spot on the line
The finals day in Salt Lake City, Utah, a week later, will determine this year’s Pacific Nations Cup champion.
