Coco Talanoa — Sports / Page 1

It was a massive weekend for the small but mighty Pacific teams in Super Rugby Pacific. The Kiwi teams struggled against Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika, with both Pacific franchises delivering unforgettable performances to secure their first wins of the 2025 season.

Moana Pasifika stunned the Hurricanes 40-31 at North Harbour Stadium on Saturday, while the Fijian Drua toppled the previously unbeaten Waikato Chiefs 28-24 at Churchill Park in Lautoka. The victories marked a statement round for the competition, showcasing the strength and progress of the Pacific teams.

For Moana, the win was particularly significant as they fought back without their captain, Ardie Savea, who left the field just before halftime due to injury. In his first match against his former team since joining Moana Pasifika, Savea expressed his pride in his teammates.

"I'm proud of the boys to get across the line and get the dub. They showed true heart and effort, and it shows that when we get it right, we can get it right," Savea told Sky SportNZ’s Jeff Wilson after the game.…more

The Solomon Islands and American Samoa U-19 women’s football teams have arrived in Tonga this week to compete in the OFC U-19 Women’s Championship qualifiers. This tournament marks a crucial step for teams aiming to secure a place in the next OFC U-19 Women’s Championship, where they will battle for a chance to represent Oceania on the world stage.

The previous edition of the tournament, held in 2023, was a landmark event. Hosted by Fiji, it was the first OFC U-19 Women’s Championship to take place since the COVID-19 pandemic and also served as a qualification pathway for the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia. The competition saw the return of the under-20 age restriction for the first time since 2015, adding another layer of challenge for the participating teams.

One of the standout stories of the 2023 tournament was the Cook Islands, one of OFC’s smallest member associations, who made an impressive run to the semi-finals. Their journey ended at the hands of New Zealand, who secured a 5-0 victory to advance to the final.…more

The wait is over—Rugby League is back in Las Vegas for its second consecutive year, and it’s double the excitement in 2025! After a thrilling debut in 2024 with four teams, this year’s festival sees the competition expand to eight teams, including the historic addition of the Australian Jillaroos, making it a truly global Rugby League spectacle.

On Saturday, 1 March 2025, the iconic Allegiant Stadium will host four high-intensity match-ups, bringing together the best of the NRL, Super League, and international rugby for an unforgettable day of action.

The 2025 Las Vegas Showdowns

🏉 Canberra Raiders vs. New Zealand Warriors
Two powerhouse clubs from the NRL lock horns in a trans-Tasman showdown, promising fast-paced, physical footy.

🏉 Penrith Panthers vs. Cronulla Sutherland Sharks
The defending NRL champions take on the Sharks in what is set to be a battle of skill, strategy, and pure determination.

🏉 Wigan Warriors vs. Warrington Wolves
Super League giants take centre stage in a classic English rivalry as Wigan and Warrington bring their hard-hitting brand of rugby to Vegas.

🏉 Australian Jillaroos vs.…more

Auckland is positioning itself as the home for a second NRL team with the launch of Mana Pasifika, a bid that could change the future of rugby league in New Zealand. More than just adding another franchise, this is a chance to stop the talent drain that has seen many of our best players head to Australia in search of professional opportunities.

For years, New Zealand has been a breeding ground for NRL stars, yet a significant number of them have been forced to cross the Tasman to chase their dreams. In 2021 over 100 New Zealand-born players were reported to be contracted to Australian-based NRL clubs. With the Pasifika and Māori influence growing stronger in the sport, Mana Pasifika presents an opportunity to keep that talent at home, develop local pathways, and build a team that truly represents Aotearoa’s unique rugby league culture.

The bid has already garnered strong backing from across the Pacific and New Zealand, with key Māori and Pasifika leaders recognising its potential to unite both cultures.…more

It was a big night for Pacific Boxing last night as the IBF Cruiserweight Title Fight Night showcased the best performances the Pacific has to offer.

Jai Opetaia: And Still

Headlining the event, Australian-Samoan Jai Opetaia defended his IBF Cruiserweight Title in spectacular fashion. Opetaia delivered a breathtaking fourth-round knockout against David Nyika, cementing his place among boxing’s elite.

After overcoming serious injuries in his 2022 title win against Mairis Briedis, Opetaia’s journey to this moment has been nothing short of extraordinary. Defending his title after just a short 4 months since his win against Jack Massey in October last year. Speaking of his career-defining win, he previously said, “I’ve put everything on the line to get here. This is my dream.”

Opetaia’s victory showcased not only his technical skill but also his unyielding determination, a trait he credits to his Pasifika roots. Fans waved Samoan flags with pride as Opetaia celebrated his (not so) hard-fought victory.…more

Samoan Cruiserweight champ Jai Opetaia & David Nyika Face Off ahead of their highly anticipated fight TONIGHT! In Australia.

In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Fiji's rugby sevens team emerged victorious at the Emirates Dubai 7s over the weekend, claiming the title for the first time in eight years.

This victory marks the end of a 22-tournament drought for Fiji, a significant achievement under the guidance of player-turned-coach Osea Kolinisau. The team showcased a remarkable performance, culminating in a decisive 19-5 victory against Spain in the men's final.

The match began with Spain taking an early lead, scoring 5 points in the first half. However, Fiji quickly retaliated, matching Spain's score just before heading into the second half, setting the stage for an exhilarating showdown.

Kolinisau expressed his joy and relief after the match, stating, “It’s been a long time coming for the boys,” especially in light of the drama that has surrounded the Fiji Rugby scene in recent years. His leadership has been pivotal in bringing the team together, revitalizing the squad with a blend of new talent and experienced players.…more

Big Island weekend of sport!

Fetu Samoa vs Fiji Bulikula 16 – 12

Fetu Samoa fought back to win a thrilling encounter at the Womens Pacific Bowl Final against Fiji Bulikula. The Fijians who looked the better of the two teams where ahead on the scoreboard for 67 minutes, before Fetu Samoa Captain Annetta-Claudia Nu'uausala crashed over for her second try to seal the win and a place for her Samoan team at the next Womens Rugby League World cup 2025 in England.

The Fijians go home heartbroken but can claim the Audience Choice Award for the tournament and should be in the running for the best tries scored. 

Fetu Samoa hopes are now that their fetu will shine brightly in the Rugby World Cup next year.

Mate Ma’a Tonga vs Kiwis 25 - 24

The showdown for a place in the final of the Pacific cup between  New Zealand and Tonga almost proved to be a fizzer if you were a kiwi supporter.…more

Local sports legends and community leaders are coming together on November 2nd at Otara Pool and Leisure Centre to support the NEET Youth Mentoring Programme. With funding cuts looming, Counties Manukau is determined to keep this essential support available for its youth.

The NEET service—short for Not in Employment, Education, or Training—focuses on helping young people stay on track when mainstream paths aren’t working for them. Whether it’s finishing school, exploring further education, or stepping into employment, the programme guides youth towards establishing their next steps. However, with funding set to be cut, the urgency to raise money has never been greater.

“We have the honour and privilege of serving Counties Manukau communities every day and experiencing first-hand the unmatched pride and passion that exists in our people for all things sport,” says CEO Greg Buckley.…more