Tonga’s ʻIkale Tahi defeated Romania 43–38 in a thrilling World Rugby Nations Cup encounter in Bucharest on Friday, securing a hard-fought five-point victory over the hosts.
The high-scoring contest at Stadionul Național Arcul de Triumf saw both teams battle for supremacy in an entertaining international rugby showdown.
Tonga held their nerve in a closely fought encounter, overcoming a determined Romanian side to secure victory on European soil.
The result marked a successful return to the competition for ʻIkale Tahi, who entered the November fixtures seeking to improve their standing after recording one victory in their opening three Nations Cup matches in July.
Captained by Fetuli Paea, Tonga fielded a combination of experienced internationals and emerging players, with Siaosi Nginingini and Patrick Pellegrini forming the halfback partnership.
The victory also reversed Tonga’s 25–15 defeat to Romania in Bucharest in November 2024.
The two nations have developed a competitive rivalry in recent years, with Tonga defeating Romania 45–24 at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
Tonga entered Friday’s encounter ranked 19th in the world, two places ahead of Romania.
ʻIkale Tahi will continue their Nations Cup campaign against Georgia in Tbilisi on 14 November before facing Hong Kong China on 21 November.
