Fiji secured a spot in the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals, despite a narrow 24-23 loss to Portugal, who clinched their first win in the tournament. This unexpected outcome also saw Australia eliminated from the competition, marking a significant upset in Pool C.
In a dramatic turn of events, the Pacific Islanders needed just a single point to progress to the quarterfinals and, in doing so, knock out two-time champions Australia during the group phase—an unprecedented scenario. Fiji accomplished this by securing a bonus point for losing by less than eight points, setting up an intense quarterfinal clash with England.
Portugal, showing fearless attacking intent and playing with remarkable confidence, managed to outscore Fiji in a tightly contested match. Rodrigo Marta’s late try, converted by Samuel Marques, sealed a memorable victory for Portugal.
The Portuguese team showcased their attacking prowess throughout the match, with tries from Raffaele Storti and Francisco Fernandes. Samuel Marques contributed nine points from successful kicks at goal.
Both Fiji and Australia concluded Pool C with 11 points each, but it was Australia, under the leadership of Eddie Jones, who suffered elimination following their loss to Fiji.
Wales emerged as the winners of the group and are set to face Argentina in the quarterfinals.
Fiji coach Simon Raiwalui expressed his team’s frustration, stating, “We were a bit tight in the context of the game. We created lots of opportunities but we just didn’t throw the ball out to our outside backs. So congratulations to Portugal, they can enjoy tonight.”
Portugal’s head coach, Patrice Lagisquet, who participated in two World Cups with France in 1987 and 1991, expressed his amazement at his players’ performance as his four-year tenure ended on a high note. He said, “They still surprise me after four years. It’s incredible, unbelievable, they always find the resources.”
Despite trailing 17-10 in the second half, Fiji’s superior bench played a pivotal role in their comeback. They regained the lead with a converted try and two penalties in the 68th and 74th minutes. However, Portugal produced a late twist with Marta’s try securing an emotional win.
The match itself showcased an open and exciting style of play, resembling a Rugby Sevens contest. Fiji started with a Lomani penalty but struggled with handling errors. Portugal, displaying resilience in defense and glimpses of attacking brilliance, leveled the score at 3-3 through Marques’ penalty before halftime.
Portugal took the lead early in the second half through Raffaele Storti’s try. Fiji responded with a try by Levani Botia but suffered a setback when Botia was sin-binned for a dangerous tackle. Portugal capitalized on the numerical advantage, with their forwards driving over the line for Fernandes to score.
Fiji managed to regain the lead temporarily with two Lomani penalties, but Marta’s late try secured a historic win for Portugal, sending shockwaves through the Rugby World Cup.
