2019 Rugby World Cup – Wales vs Fiji Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is Wales vs Fiji taking place? Wednesday 9th October, 2019 – 10:45 (UK)
Where is Wales vs Fiji taking place? Oita Stadium, Oita Prefecture
What is the expected weather for Wales vs Fiji? 19c in clear skies
What television channel is Wales vs Fiji on in the UK? This match will be televised live on ITV 1
Where can I stream Wales vs Fiji? This match can be streamed via ITV Hub
Where can I get tickets for Wales vs Fiji? https://www.rugbyworldcup.com/tickets
HEAD-TO-HEAD
Last meeting: Wales 23-13 Fiji
THE TEAM NEWS
WALES
- Wales put in a strong first half display against Australia and despite a second-half fightback from the Wallabies, they were able to hold on for a vital victory which should ensure they qualify for the quarter-finals barring a major hiccup.
- Dan Biggar has been passed fit for the game with Fiji after the Wales fly-half had to come off due to a heavy head knock against the Wallabies and he keeps his place in the starting XV as a result.
- Head coach Warren Gatland makes just two changes from that brilliant win and both of those come in the back-row with Ross Moriarty and James Davies coming into the side for Aaron Wainwright and Justin Tipuric.
FIJI
- Fiji picked up their first win of this year's RWC as they put in a powerful attacking display to see off the challenge of Georgia and will now play Wales in what is likely to be their last game of the tournament.
- The Fijians have named a strong side for this contest that they have to win to give themselves a slender chance of progressing but it would rely on an unlikely sequence of results even if they do come out on top in this game.
- The only change from the win over Georgia comes in the form of Viliame Mata who comes in to start at number eight in place of Peceli Yato who drops to the bench with fly-half Ben Volavola retaining his place in the side.
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THE PREDICTION
Fiji defeated Georgia for their first win of this year's RWC but it is likely they will have to settle for third in Pool D. They now face Wales who come into this on the back of a crucial win over Australia and with both sides likely to throw the ball around, this could be a high-scoring game. The Fijians showed what they are capable of with ball-in-hand against Georgia and will need to produce a similar attacking display to get anything from this game but Wales are likely to be too good.
