Tonga is set to commence its campaign in the Pacific Championships today at Suncorp Stadium against Samoa. This match holds significant importance for Samoa as they aim to keep their tournament hopes alive. Currently, they are coming off a narrow defeat to New Zealand and require a victory to advance to the Pacific Cup final on November 9.
Tonga vs Samoa: A Crucial Clash
The match is pivotal for both teams. A win for Tonga guarantees them a spot in the final against New Zealand, regardless of the outcome in their upcoming fixture against the Kiwis.
Tonga enters the tournament with a strong lineup, arguably the best they have fielded in a Test match. They were the dark horses in last year’s tournament, finishing only six points behind Australia in the 2024 Pacific Cup final.
Key Player Changes
Unfortunately, Tonga faces a setback with the late withdrawal of star forward Jason Taumalolo due to injury. Felise Kaufusi is set to take his place in the starting lineup.
Team Lineups
Samoa’s Squad:
- 1. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck
- 2. Brian To’o
- 3. Izack Tago
- 4. Deine Mariner
- 5. Murray Taulagi
- 6. Blaize Talagi
- 7. Jarome Luai
- 8. Josh Papali’i
- 9. Benaiah Ioelu
- 10. Payne Haas
- 11. Jeremiah Nanai
- 12. Simi Sasagi
- 13. Junior Paulo
- 14. Jazz Tevaga
- 15. Chanel Harris-Tavita
- 16. Terrell May (18th man: Ativalu Lisati)
For Samoa, Benaiah Ioelu starts at hooker while Jazz Tevaga moves to the bench. Terrell May returns to the squad after missing last week’s match.
Tonga’s Squad:
- 1. Lehi Hopoate
- 2. Daniel Tupou
- 3. Tolutau Koula
- 4. Robert Toia
- 5. Sione Katoa
- 6. Isaiah Iongi
- 7. Isaiya Katoa
- 8. Addin Fonua-Blake
- 9. Siliva Havili
- 10. Stefano Utoikamanu
- 11. Felise Kaufusi
- 12. Eliesa Katoa
- 13. Siua Wong
- 14. Soni Luke
- 15. Moeaki Fotuaika
- 16. Demitric Vaimauga (18th man: Paul Alamoti)
Young talent Leka Halasima has been promoted to the starting side, resulting in Siua Wong moving to the bench.
Watch the Action Live
Fans can follow the match live via FOX LEAGUE, which also offers Kayo subscriptions, providing a special deal for new users. Today’s clash promises to be a thrilling encounter as Tonga aims to secure a vital win against Samoa in the Pacific Championships.
