The FIJI Water Flying Fijians should expect a fired-up Japan side in this Saturday’s Punjas Pacific Battle clash in Tokyo.

Japan’s 21-16 win over Tonga last Saturday, has boosted their campaign towards the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.

The RWC is from September 18 to October 28.

The Brave Blossoms face Fiji and Italy ahead of the RWC.

“It was nice to get a win and get our campaign on the road,” Japan coach Jamie Joseph told Japan Today.

Japan veteran Ryohei Yamanaka said the win over Tonga should give the team momentum going into the World Cup.

“It was a tough match. It was great that we were able to execute our plans and grab the victory. This should give us more energy going forward,” he said.

“We have had a series of losses and we haven’t been able to show results. So this win gives us confidence. We can grow as a team now and we will have more momentum going forward,” he said.

Japan is in Pool D at the World Cup alongside England, Argentina, Chile and Samoa. Japan reached the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time on home soil four years ago.

Samoa to bounce back

Meanwhile, Manu Samoa is looking to bounce back with a win against Tonga at Apia Park, on Saturday.

Samoan captain and No.8 Fritz Lee said they are looking forward to face the Tongans.

“We’re expecting a tough physical game,” he said.

Manu Samoa head coach Seilala Mapusua indicated that they gave away a lot of penalties against the Flying Fijians and they’ve learnt from it.

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