Samoa delivered a commanding performance to claim their first victory of the Pacific Nations Cup with a 43-17 win over rivals Tonga in Apia on Friday. Despite a valiant second-half comeback by the Tonga, Samoa’s early dominance and clinical finishing secured a crucial win in their Pool A campaign.

Winger Tuna Tuitama was the standout player, crossing the try line twice as Samoa surged to a 29-0 lead. The hosts capitalized on their fast start, with center Stacey Ili crashing over for the opening try from the base of a ruck. Ili continued his strong form by setting up Tuitama for his first of two tries. Fly-half D’Angelo Leuila was sharp off the tee, converting both early tries and slotting a penalty to send Samoa into the break with a 17-0 advantage.

Samoa came out firing after halftime, with Tuitama adding his second try and flanker Izaiha Moore-Aiono muscling over from close range to extend the lead to 29-0. Tonga’s first points came courtesy of fly-half Patrick Pellegrini, who slotted a penalty to make it 29-3.

Tonga fought back with grit and determination, led by loose forward Lotu Inisi, who powered his way over the line twice in quick succession. Pellegrini’s conversions brought Tonga within striking distance at 29-17, thrilling the traveling Tongan supporters and setting up a tense final 20 minutes.