(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pacific Nations Cup 2025 Finals Kick Off in Denver
The highly anticipated Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup 2025 Finals Series begins this weekend at DICK’S Sporting Goods Park in Denver, Colorado, featuring three exciting rugby clashes with Rugby World Cup 2027 qualification stakes on the line.
Samoa vs USA – A Golden Ticket to Australia
Samoa and the USA open the weekend with a crucial playoff for fifth place — and more importantly, a direct spot at the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia.
Historically, Samoa holds the upper hand, winning six of the previous eight meetings, including the most recent clash in Japan. The Eagles, meanwhile, are desperate to bounce back after missing out on France 2023. A win would help them avoid a tricky play-off against Chile for the final RWC 2027 berth.
Both sides are under pressure, but with Samoa’s proud record of qualifying for every World Cup since 1991, and USA fighting to prove their growth under captain Jason Damm, this promises to be a fierce encounter.
Tonga vs Japan – Semi-Final Showdown
Next up, Tonga faces Japan in the first semi-final. Tonga already secured their RWC 2027 qualification thanks to Samoa’s defeat last week, but now aim to equal or surpass their best-ever Pacific Nations Cup finish.
Eddie Jones’ Japan, however, enter as strong favorites. The Brave Blossoms have won eight of their last nine Pacific Nations Cup matches and are determined to go one better than last year’s final loss to Fiji. Tonga hasn’t beaten Japan since 2015, but their recent improvement suggests a tough contest ahead.
Fiji vs Canada – Champions Defend Their Crown
Defending champions Fiji meet Canada in the second semi-final. Canada, who secured their place at RWC 2027 after a long-awaited win over the USA, are looking to pull off another upset.
History, however, is stacked against them. Fiji, six-time Pacific Nations Cup winners, haven’t lost to Canada since 2013 and have been in dominant form this year, conceding only 25 points in two pool games.
Canada will need something special to break Fiji’s momentum, but after their breakthrough earlier in the tournament, they will take confidence into this semi-final.
Where to Watch
All matches from the Pacific Nations Cup 2025 will be streamed live on RugbyPass TV, with additional coverage available via broadcast partners in select regions.
