Live Updates: Tonga Faces Huge Challenge Against New Zealand in Battle for Grand Final Spot
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter as Tonga faces a huge challenge against New Zealand in the Pacific Championships. This highly anticipated match will take place at Eden Park in Auckland, where the undefeated Kiwis are keen on securing their second win. The Kiwis are preparing for a rematch with Samoa next week, while Tonga seeks redemption after being defeated by Samoa 34-6.
Match Overview
Tonga’s pathway to the grand final spot is narrow. They must beat New Zealand by more than 17 points to ensure their progression. The stakes are high as both teams look to establish dominance in this crucial clash.
Team Changes
New Zealand’s lineup has seen some adjustments due to injuries:
- Unavailable Players: Ronaldo Mulitalo (knee), Jeremy Marshall-King (thumb).
- Inclusions: Keano Kini takes the wing position, and Phoenix Crossland starts at hooker.
- Bench Additions: Te Maire Martin and Xavier Willison join the bench.
- Notable Changes: Nelson Asofa-Solomona is moved to 18th man after limited minutes against Samoa.
Tonga also welcome back key player Jason Taumalolo, who missed the previous game against Samoa. However, they will contend without Rob Toia (foot injury) and Stefano Utoikamanu (concussion). Will Penisini steps in at center for Tolu Koula.
Teams Lineups
| New Zealand | Tonga |
|---|---|
| 1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad | 1. Lehi Hopoate |
| 2. Jamayne Isaako | 2. Daniel Tupou |
| 3. Matthew Timoko | 19. Will Penisini |
| 4. Casey McLean | 4. Paul Alamoti |
| 20. Keano Kini | 5. Sione Katoa |
| 6. Dylan Brown | 6. Isaiah Iongi |
| 7. Kieran Foran | 7. Isaiya Katoa |
| 8. James Fisher-Harris | 8. Addin Fonua-Blake |
| 9. Phoenix Crossland | 9. Siliva Havili |
| 10. Moses Leota | 17. Moeaki Fotuaika |
| 11. Briton Nikora | 11. Eliesa Katoa |
| 12. Isaiah Papalii | 12. Siua Wong |
| 13. Joseph Tapine | 14. Soni Luke |
| 14. Te Maire Martin | 16. Demetric Vaimauga |
| 15. Naufahu Whyte | |
| 16. Erin Clark | |
| 17. Xavier Willison | |
| 18th man: 19. Scot Sorensen | 13. Jason Taumalolo |
The excitement builds as fans prepare to watch every game of the 2025 Pacific Championships live on Emegypt. The outcome of this match will be pivotal, particularly for Tonga, as they aim to overcome significant odds.
