In their last opportunity to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, Manu Samoa are fielding a quality outfit in their first match against Brazil.
Manu Samoa will play three matches in the RWC qualifying tournament held in Dubai facing off against Brazil, Namibia and Belgium.
This weekend will see the return of Samoa’s captain Theo McFarland who will lead his nation in the number six jersey.
Completing the loose trio is Manu Samoa veteran Alamanda Motuga and powerhouse No. 8 Iakopo Mapu.
Manu Samoa Head Coach Lemalu Tusi Pisi has named two debutants in his starting 15 including local hero from Tepatasi, Va’afauese Apelu Maliko.
Apelu Maliko is well loved by Samoa after he helped put Samoa 7’s back on the map between 2022-2025.
“Boat” as he known by his colleagues will finally make his 15’s debut for Samoa from the left wing.
Debuting alongside Apelu Maliko is hooker Millennium Sanerivi. He is currently signed with Moana Pasifika and is fresh off an NPC campaign with Auckland.
Jonathan Taumateine returns at halfback and is in charge of steering Samoa around the paddock alongside Rodney Iona at first five-eight.
Lemalu has also named a strong bench mixed with new exciting talent and experience.
Former Manu Samoa captain Michael Alaalatoa leads Samoa’s impact players off the bench. He is joined by Taleni Seu and Lalomilo Lalomilo who have plenty of international experience under their belts.
The spark off the bench will be brought by potential debutant Faletoi Peni who comes off leading two successful campaigns for his respective sides.
After helping the New England Free Jacks win the MLR in America, he joined Southland and carried them to one of their most successful NPC seasons to date.
Peni will look to bring some of that success to Samoa’s first match against Brazil.
Niko Jones also returns from injury and will look to bring massive impact off the bench as he had done at his debut earlier this year.
Samoa will kickoff against Brazil at 2am on Sunday morning (November 9th).
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Daniel is a junior reporter who has recently graduated from Waikato University with a Bachelor of Health, Sport and Human Performance (BHSHP). He continues to write part time for Samoa Global News.
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