The FIJI Water Flying Fijians are set for another tough encounter this Sunday, taking on France in their second test of the Autumn Nations Series.
Fiji last tasted victory against France back in 2018 with a historic 21-14 victory in Paris, in 2023 France avenged the loss in the rugby world cup warm-up match 34-17.
Both sides will head into their much-anticipated match on the back of losses conceded last week. Fiji went down 38-18 against England while the French lost 32-17 against South Africa.
When asked by the French media on the importance of their 2018 victory in Paris, assistant coach Aaron Mauger said the victory was a memorable one etched in the proud legacy of Fijian rugby- a performance that the team can draw inspiration from as they look to bounce back from last weeks loss against England.
“That was a great performance and a great day for Fiji rugby and the country so we can draw inspiration from those performances- saying that it was seven years ago, so now this team is fine with putting a performance that we can be proud of and have a real crack and add to that legacy of Fijian rugby,” said Mauger
Viliame Mata is one of the few players still in the squad that was part of the victorious team against France says, the 2018 upset in Paris gives them confidence that France can be beaten on their home turf.
“Yeah, it was massive for us just because that group that did that year and it gives us the confidence that this group can do it again, it’s doable and we can beat France in France which is always good for Fiji rugby.” Mata said.
The team is currently training at the Bordeaux rugby union facilities in France and had their first training session yesterday as they prepare for their highly anticipated encounter against France this weekend.
They flying Fijians will take on France this Sunday November 16 in Bordeaux at 8.10am (Fiji time).
