Wales secured a 34-29 victory over Fiji in their Nations Championship opener, building on their promising Six Nations finale. Despite technically being the away team, the match was played at Cardiff City Stadium in front of a crowd of 16,456.
Returning flanker Jac Morgan was instrumental in the win, scoring two of Wales' six tries and earning man of the match honors. His performance highlighted a strong effort from the Welsh forwards, which contrasted with Fiji's dynamic backline. Morgan had been sidelined due to injury during the Six Nations.
Wales wing Josh Adams contributed a try, capitalizing on a moment of hesitation from Fiji's Selestino Ravutaumada. Adams expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, stating, "It was really important to win again. We closed the game out and we're glad to get the win. We've shown how much we've developed since the Six Nations and we want to keep building."
Fiji is set to face England next at Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium. However, they may be without Semi Radradra, who sustained a serious leg injury during the match in Cardiff.
In other Nations Championship fixtures, Ireland narrowly defeated Australia 33-31 in Sydney with a late try from Tom Clarkson. Meanwhile, New Zealand began their campaign under new head coach Dave Rennie with a close 34-32 victory over France. France, despite the absence of several key players including Antoine Dupont, Louis Bielle-Biarrey, and Thomas Ramos, provided a strong challenge to the All Blacks.