Bold Battle Down Under: Fiji vs Portugal Rugby World Cup 2023 Match Preview

Rugby World Cup 2023 Match Preview: Fiji v Portugal

Overview

On Sunday, October 8th, Fiji will face off against Portugal in the last match of the pool phase at Rugby World Cup 2023. This match holds significant importance for both teams as they seek to make their mark on the tournament and secure their place in the quarter-finals.

Fiji has been a standout team in the competition, narrowly missing a victory against Wales but bouncing back with impressive wins over Australia and Georgia. With just one point away from quarter-final qualification, Fiji is eager to seal their spot with a win in Toulouse. Head coach Simon Raiwalui has made changes to the starting line-up, bringing in Top 14 star Vilimoni Botitu, as well as other players who have proven their worth in previous matches.

Portugal, under the guidance of coach Patrice Lagisquet, aims to end their tournament on a high note with a statement victory. This game is likely to be the final appearance for several players in the team, and they will be motivated to leave a lasting impression. Portugal has made changes to their starting XV, with José Lima taking over as captain and inside-centre, adding a new level of leadership and experience.

Fixture History

Fiji has a strong track record against Portugal, winning their previous two encounters. Both matches took place in Lisbon, with the first ending in a 26-17 victory for Fiji in 2005. In their most recent meeting in 2013, Fiji secured a convincing 36-13 win, with Levani Botia making a significant impact off the bench. This history suggests that Fiji has the upper hand going into this match.

Key Talking Point

While Fiji and Portugal battle it out on the field, another nation has a vested interest in the outcome of this match. Australia currently holds the second position in Pool C and is relying on Portugal to cause an upset and deny Fiji the point they need to secure the remaining quarter-final spot. The result of this match will have implications for these teams on the periphery, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the clash.

Player Head-to-Head

One particular player matchup to keep an eye on is Vilimoni Botitu for Fiji and Jerónimo Portela for Portugal. Botitu, a star in the Top 14 league, will start at fly-half for Fiji, a position he has only occupied once before in an international match. His versatility has been evident in his performances for his club side, Castres Olympique, where he usually plays at inside-centre. Portela, on the other hand, will play a crucial role for Portugal, striving to make an impact and disrupt Botitu’s game. This battle between these two talented players could be a deciding factor in the outcome of the match.

Ref Watch

The match will be officiated by Luke Pearce from England. Pearce’s recent matches indicate a propensity for high-scoring games, with plenty of tries being awarded. He oversaw a match in which South Africa scored 10 tries against Tonga, New Zealand scored 11 against Namibia, and Australia scored six against Georgia. Fans can expect an open and attacking style of play with Pearce in charge.

Teams

Fiji:
– Sireli Maqala
– Selesitino Ravutaumada
– Waisea Nayacalevu (captain)
– Josua Tuisova
– Vinaya Habosi
– Vilimoni Botitu
– Frank Lomani
– Eroni Mawi
– Samuel Matavesi
– Luke Tagi
– Isoa Nasilasila
– Temo Mayanavanua
– Meli Derenalagi
– Levani Botia
– Viliame Mata

Replacements:
– Tevita Ikanivere
– Peni Ravai
– Mesake Doge
– Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta
– Albert Tuisue
– Peni Matawalu
– Teti Tela
– Iosefo Masi

Portugal:
– Manuel Cardoso Pinto
– Raffaele Storti
– Pedro Bettencourt
– José Lima (captain)
– Rodrigo Marta
– Jerónimo Portela
– Samuel Marques
– Francisco Fernandes
– Mike Tadjer
– Diogo Hasse Ferreira
– José Madeira
– Steevy Cerqueira
– David Wallis
– Nicolas Martins
– Rafael Simões

Replacements:
– David Costa
– Duarte Diniz
– Anthony Alves
– Duarte Torgal
– João Granate
– João Belo
– Tomás Appleton
– Vincent Pinto

Conclusion

The Fiji v Portugal match in the Rugby World Cup 2023 holds significant importance for both teams. Fiji‘s strong performances thus far make them the favorites, but Portugal will be determined to end their tournament on a positive note. The outcome of this match will not only impact the two teams on the field but also the fate of Australia, who will be watching intently. Rugby fans can expect an exciting and hard-fought contest between these two teams.