The FIJI Water Flying Fijians edged Spain 41–33 in Malaga yesterday, but their discipline and penalty count nearly cost them dearly in a tightly contested match.

Fiji started poorly, conceding early penalties that allowed Spain to take a 7–0 lead after their halfback broke through in the 20th minute.

Spain capitalised repeatedly on Fiji’s errors, extending their advantage through accurate kicks and well-worked tries.

Captain Tevita Ikanivere praised the team’s composure despite the challenging moments.

“We got the win tonight (yesterday). A very tough game as Spain was very good,” said Ikanivere.

“They (Spain) made us earn everything we got. Just proud of the boys, how they dug themselves out and the composure they had and how we got the win.”

A key factor in Fiji’s comeback was flyhalf Isiah Armstrong-Ravula whose masterful game management and exceptional kicking game were crucial.

His pinpoint cross-kicks set up tries for Elia Canakaivata and Joji Nasova, while his perfect penalty conversions kept Fiji in the game.

The match swung back and forth, with Spain reclaiming the lead multiple times, exploiting Fiji’s lapses in discipline and defence.

Ikanivere also acknowledged Spain’s dominance up front, swinging the momentum in their favour in crucial moments of the game.

“They were very good in their mauls. Their rolling mauls were good especially when they came to the front,” Ikanivere admitted.

Reflecting on their Europe tour performance, Ikanivere emphasised accountability and belief.

“When we lose, it’s just because it’s our fault. We don’t perform and when we do win, it’s because we dig ourselves out of the troubles we in,” he said.

“I think the biggest take away is that this team can do anything if we work together and do things right.”

The win concludes Fiji’s 2025 Europe tour on a high, after consecutive defeats to England and France in their first two games.