WXV Global Series Challenger 2026 | Talking points as Fiji claimed silverware

Fiji have done it and claimed top spot in the WXV Global Series Challenger after they overcame the Netherlands 20-17 in a fiercely contested encounter.

Samoa found their mojo as they clinched a 34-17 win over the hosts after a display of power and staggering physicality.

Spain’s clash with Brazil was cancelled due to extreme weather conditions delay that impacted kick-off times in the third round.

A Game worthy of the word ‘final’

In a game of fine margins, Fijiana has claimed a 20-17 win over the Netherlands, lifting the WXV Global Series Challenger for the first time!

In a match that demanded every ounce of energy from both sides, Fiji’s determination proved crucial in the final 10 minutes, as the Pacific Island nation squeezed out a golden penalty that Varanisese Qoro slotted with no trouble.

But that was how the contest ended. What unfolded over the preceding 78 minutes proved to be far more significant, even though only 37 points were scored in total, with Fiji and the Netherlands trying to find a way to crack the code of each other’s defence.

Fiji built a 12-point lead before the first quarter, thanks to those brilliant running lines that had already played a critical role in their wins over Spain and Hong Kong China, with Kolora Lomani and Varanisese Qoro running the attacking mill with precision.

While Linde van der Velden lifted her Oranje troops’ spirits, Fiji seemed headed to an uncontested win until the last five minutes before the break. Through utter perseverance and willpower, the Dutch found a way, with Elisabeth Boot striking from a driving maul to give her side a fighting chance with another 40 minutes to go.

The try changed the complexion of the match. It convinced the Dutch that the title was within reach, while Fiji lost its way during the opening 20 minutes of the second half. With Van Der Velden and Pleuni Kievit bagging a finish each, the Netherlands took complete control until their indiscipline let Fiji creep in.

With 15 minutes to go, replacement hooker Selai Naliva came flying in and, like an unexpected hero, saved the day by equalising the game at 17 points. The Dutch’s fatigue settled in and ultimately handed Fiji the keys to the trophy cabinet, with Qoro striking a kick to ensue kick-start the celebrations.

Never write Samoa off

Samoa’s final 80 minutes of WXV Global Series Challenger 2026 will be remembered as a defining moment for Manusina, as they overcame two harsh defeats to the Netherlands and Spain to earn their first win of the tournament.

Against a resilient Hong Kong China side that looked rock-solid and inspired to land another positive result, Samoa came crashing in with all their physicality and handling ability to secure their first win since June 2025.

With Ana Afuie, Precious Auimatagi, Drenna Falaniko and Michelle Curry dominating the gain-line, winning several metres with more than one defender hanging on their sides, Samoa made most of their carries count.

While the hosts did command a ferocious and threatening driving maul, the Pacific Island side dominated in most areas, completely controlling the scrum, tackle and breakdown tussle.

Every carry, every meter gained, every tackle made, and every dominant scrum made a real impact, and Manusina’s immense determination showed they had the fight to carry them over the line.

While some might justifiably say that Samoa played on emotion, there was also clear improvement in every aspect of the game, offering a glimpse of a side returning to its true form and promising great things for the future.