Tonga has announced its strongest lineup for the opening clash of the Pacific Nations Cup (PNC) against Manu Samoa, set to take place in Apia on Friday afternoon. Led by heavyweight prop Ben Tameifuna, the Tongan squad includes five Moana Pasifika players, signaling their intent to put up a tough fight in what is expected to be a physical battle.
Despite missing several big-name players due to unavailability or being overlooked by the new coaching team, Tonga is determined to start their campaign on a high note. The lineup also features new Moana Pasifika signing Patrick Pellegrini, as well as seasoned players like the Inise brothers, Lotu and Fine, prop Tau Koloamatangi, and scrumhalves Manu Paea and Aisea Halo.
Head coach Tevita Tuifua and assistant coach Nili Latu have had to assemble the squad from a mix of available players, as many from the 2023 Rugby World Cup squad are either tied up with club commitments or have opted out. Tuifua acknowledges the challenge ahead, especially with Samoa playing on home turf amidst centennial celebrations for rugby.
“It is not an easy game,” Tuifua said. “They are playing at home, and with their local fans supporting them, they will definitely be coming hard at us. But we will focus on our game and try and play the way we want to.”
The match holds significant importance for both teams, as they vie for a spot in the final play-offs of the expanded PNC, which now includes an Asia pool with teams like Japan, Canada, and the USA. Samoa, coming off a 42-16 loss to Fiji, is eager to secure a win to keep their hopes alive.
The two teams have a long history of fierce competition, with Samoa winning six of their last eight encounters. The Test match kicks off at 5 p.m. Tonga time.
