The darling of the public since the start of the World Cup, Fiji managed to qualify for the quarter-finals, where they will challenge England on Sunday. Despite the difficulties encountered during their last group match against Portugal, the Fijian team remains confident and hopes to be carried by the passion of its supporters.
“In Fiji, it’s not excitement, it’s madness,” says Seremaia Bai, assistant coach of the Fijian team. Rugby is more than a sport in Fiji, it is a true passion that unites the whole country. Loyal fans get up early in the morning, some sick people come back to life when the team wins. The prospect of reaching the quarter-finals after 16 years is therefore a historic and emotional moment for the Fijians.
Victory would be a real achievement for the team, which is ranked 10th in the world rankings. As a Tier 2 team, Fiji don’t often get the opportunity to play Tier 1 teams like England. It is therefore a unique opportunity for them to show their skills and push their limits.
However, doubts emerged during the last group matches. The Fijians struggled to confirm their status as favorites against Georgia and Portugal, leaving uncertainty surrounding their real potential. They will therefore have to regain their fluid and well-structured game if they want to hope to defeat England in the quarter-final.
Despite these difficulties, the Fijian team remains determined to create a surprise and make its people dream. Rugby occupies a central place in the lives of Fijians, it unites them and makes them happy. Whether the team wins or loses, the important thing is that the country is proud of them.
The quarter-final against England will therefore be a crucial moment for Fiji. A victory would be a historic achievement and a source of immense pride for the country. On Sunday, the whole country will be behind their team, ready to experience this “madness” of Fijian rugby that Seremaia Bai speaks of with so much passion.