In the world of rugby, there is a team that has been getting a lot of attention since the start of the World Cup: Fiji. Ranked 10th in the world rankings, these players in blue jerseys make an impression with their energy and passion on the pitch. Next Sunday, they will face England in the quarter-final, and they intend to create a surprise.
What makes Fiji particularly special is the crazy feeling that surrounds it. Rugby is much more than just a sport for this small Pacific archipelago. It is a true passion that drives the entire country. Fijians get up at dawn, some even in the middle of the night, to follow their national team’s matches. And when Fiji wins, it is an explosion of joy, a rediscovery of life for some.
It is this fervor that will give wings to the Fijians during their quarter-final against England. They will not only play for themselves, but for all their people, for the young people who dream of becoming rugby champions, for the inhabitants of the villages who will be proud to see their national team reach the quarter-finals for the first time in 16 years.
Certainly, the Fijians struggled in their last group matches, with a narrow victory against Georgia and an unexpected defeat against Portugal. But these results do not discourage them. They see this meeting as a new opportunity to show their potential and push their limits even further as a Tier 2 nation.
The Fijians have already proven that they have resources, with remarkable performances against the Wallabies and the Welsh. They know that the pressure of the result and the scale of the event can affect their state of mind, but they will not let it get them down. They have already demonstrated their talent and determination, and they will be sure to do so once again on the field.
If the Fijians were to win this quarter-final, it would truly be madness for them. Rugby is a central pillar of their culture, it brings them together and makes them happy. Regardless of the final result, Fiji can be proud to have reached the quarter-finals as a Tier 2 team. Their journey inspires young players and shows that with passion and hard work, anything is possible.
So, come on Sunday to support Fiji in their quest for glory. May their madness and determination take them to new heights and may they make their country proud of their achievement. Go Fiji!