Fiji's Spectacular Comeback Clinches Win Over Samoa

Flanker Kitione Salawa scored a hat-trick as Fiji overcame Samoa 42-16 in their Pacific Nations Cup match. Salawa's performance, along with scores from Frank Lomani and Vuate Karawalevu, turned a halftime deficit into a decisive win. The tournament continues with teams from Pool A and B advancing to the semi-finals in Tokyo.

Flanker Kitione Salawa delivered an impressive hat-trick of tries, leading Fiji to a 42-16 victory over Samoa in the Pacific Nations Cup on Friday in Suva. The match saw Fiji overturn a 16-15 halftime deficit thanks to Salawa and contributions from Frank Lomani and debutant Vuate Karawalevu in the closing 20 minutes.

Samoa's Pisi Leilua made an early impact with a try, supported by D'Angelo Leuila's conversion and three penalties, securing a narrow lead by halftime. However, two yellow cards in the second half weakened Samoa's defense, allowing Fiji to dominate.

This year's tournament features a revised format, with Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga in Pool A, while Canada, Japan, and the United States compete in Pool B. The top two teams from each pool will progress to the semi-finals in Tokyo, with the final staged at Hanazono Rugby Stadium near Osaka.

(With inputs from agencies.)