Manu Samoa vs Scotland at Eden Park in July

Apia, Samoa – 04 April 2025 – The highly anticipated rugby test match between Manu Samoa and Scotland, will be played as part of the first ever Barfoot & Thompson International hosted at the iconic Rugby Stadium, Eden Park, Auckland, New Zealand, on 18th July 2025.

Today’s announcement however comes as Manu Samoa is still without a Head Coach with Lakapi Samoa yet to make a selection after the position was reported to have attracted high calibre local and overseas candidates.

In announcing the test match, Lakapi Samoa said that this fixture is set to showcase the passion, skill, and physicality that both teams bring to the world stage.

With Eden Park’s rich rugby history and Auckland’s vibrant Samoan and Scottish communities, the match promises an electric atmosphere for players and fans alike. With both teams preparing for major international competitions, this test match will serve as a key fixture in their respective schedules. Scotland and Samoa have a history of competitive and thrilling encounters, and fans can expect nothing less when they take to the field in Auckland.

Lakapi Samoa’s CEO, Seumanu Douglas Ngau Chun, welcomes the announcement, stating: “Facing Scotland at Eden Park is an incredible opportunity for our team and Manu Samoa supporters. While it’s disappointing not to host the match in Samoa, especially given the improvements made to Apia Park, we have to move forward. It’s also great to be back in Auckland, and hopefully, we can replicate the success we had when playing here in 2021. This test match still allows us to showcase the talent and strength of Samoan rugby on one of the sport’s most iconic stages.

Scottish Rugby’s CEO, Alex Williamson, expressed excitement about the opportunity: “We are thrilled to confirm this test match against Manu Samoa, especially at Eden Park which is a stadium steeped in rugby tradition. It’s always a privilege to play against a team with such a proud heritage, and we know this match will provide a great challenge as we continue to build towards future international campaigns.”

Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend said: “Samoa are one of the most physical teams in world rugby with how hard they hit in the tackle. They were very competitive at the Rugby World Cup in 2023 and secured an impressive win over Italy last summer. Playing at Eden Park is a wonderful opportunity for both teams and it will be a great setting to end our tour of the South Pacific.”

Eden Park CEO, Nick Sautner said as the stadium was proud to host the clash between two proud rugby nations: “As the spiritual home of rugby in New Zealand, Eden Park is honored to host Manu Samoa and Scotland for what promises to be a world-class test match. This fixture is a celebration of international rugby and the deep pride both nations bring to the game. We look forward to welcoming passionate fans to experience the energy and sense of occasion that only test rugby at Eden Park can deliver. It will be a special day for the Samoan and Scottish communities, and for all those who love the game.”