Manu Samoa moves up 10th in World Rugby rankings after Japan win

Staff Reporters

APIA, SAMOA – 27 JULY 2023: Manu Samoa has returned to the top 10 of the World Rugby men’s rankings for the first time in nearly eight years after slipping through with a 24-22 win over Japan in Sapporo last Saturday.

As Manu Samoa prepares to face the Flying Fijians in the Pacific Nations Cup this Saturday 29 July at Apia Park, it is more than seeking to deliver a win in front of a home crowd as part of its World Cup preparations.

Samoa has moved above Georgia and Japan who fall to 12^th with Fiji ranked 13^th and Tonga at 15th.

The victory over World Cup pool rivals Japan in September continued Vaovasamanaia Seilala Mapusua’s winning record as coach which has produced seven wins and one loss.

Meanwhile, Manu Samoa have booked another pre-Rugby World Cup warm up match with a game against the Barbarians in France on August 18.

The Barbarians will be coached by former Samoa captain Pat Lam.

Lakapi Samoa says the match will give Vaovasamanaia and his coaching staff the opportunity to test out their world cup team before they face Ireland in another pre-world cup game.

Meanwhile, the Flying Fijians will be looking for a second win in the Pacific Nations Cup series clash against Manu Samoa in Apia this Saturday.

Fiji defeated Tonga 36-20 in Lautoka last Saturday.

The Fijians know Samoa will be tougher at home.

Tonga plays against Japan this Saturday and face Samoa 5 August at Apia Park.

Ikale Tahi’s coach Toutai Kefu told the media that his team made too many mistakes against the Flying Fijians in Lautoka, blaming those for his team’s loss.

He said Japan will be tough at home as they showed in their narrow loss to Manu Samoa.