The SportsWorld Fiji Under-20 side secured their first win of the 2026 World Rugby U20 Championship after overcoming Spain 29-26 in a dramatic Pool D clash this morning.

Spain made a strong start to the contest when Pelayo Serrano crossed for the opening try, although Mateo Antem was unable to add the conversion. The Europeans extended their lead soon after with a penalty try, while Fiji’s Ratu Osea Dasalusalu was shown a yellow card. Fiji also struggled with discipline early, conceding four penalties in the opening 15 minutes.

The baby Flying Fijians responded through lock Francis Peters, who powered over for Fiji’s first try, with Tevita Vuniwaqa Ledua successfully converting. Spain continued to keep the scoreboard ticking over through the boot of Antem, who slotted two penalty goals.

Fiji stayed within reach thanks to flanker Isoa Koroinawai, who scored his first try of the match before returning later in the half to grab his second. Despite the double strike from Koroinawai, Spain held a narrow advantage heading into halftime after an entertaining opening 40 minutes.

The second half saw Fiji chase not only victory but also a valuable bonus point. Spain thought they had increased their lead through hooker Ivan Farace on two occasions, but both tries were ruled out due to obstruction and a knock-on. Farace eventually got on the scoresheet, although the conversion attempt was unsuccessful.

A crucial moment came when Spain’s Oriol Marsinyac Garcia received a yellow card for a deliberate knock-on, giving Fiji a numerical advantage. The Pacific Islanders capitalized immediately, with Dasalusalu crossing for a bonus-point try that pushed Fiji into the lead for the first time in the match.

Fiji continued to apply pressure and centre Sailosi Taka added another try, although the conversion attempt missed the target. Spain managed to narrow the margin with a late penalty goal, but Fiji held firm in the closing stages to seal a memorable 29-26 victory.

The result sees the SportsWorld Fiji U20 side finish third in Pool D and secure their first win of the tournament, ending their pool campaign on a high note.