Manu Samoa’s quest to qualify for the Rugby World Cup 2027 has received a big boost with the addition of former Wallabies prop Scott Sio. The experienced front-rower, who has 74 international caps for Australia, will make his debut for Samoa. Against Namibia on Friday morning in Dubai during the second round of the Final Qualification Tournament.
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Head coach Lemalu Tusi Pisi has included Sio in the starting lineup, pairing him. With Tietie Tuimauga in the front row alongside energetic hooker Sama Malolo. The arrival of Sio couldn’t come at a better time for the Samoan side.
Who are determined to claim the 24th and final spot at the Rugby World Cup 2027. After disappointing showings in the Pacific Nations Cup and their two-match qualifying series against Chile earlier this year.
Last weekend, Samoa began their final qualification campaign on a strong note, defeating Brazil 48–10 at The Sevens Stadium in Dubai. The performance was dominant from start to finish, giving the team confidence heading into their crucial clash against Namibia.
For the Namibia match, Pisi has made eight changes to his 23-man squad, with Sio being one of the most notable inclusions. Speaking after the Brazil game, Pisi said the team’s focus was on maintaining consistency and avoiding complacency against Namibia. Who surprisingly lost to Belgium in their opening fixture.
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We talked about it in the huddle after the game, Pisi said. We just need to enjoy the win but stay grounded, focus on the present moment, and get ready for the next challenge. Sio’s experience at the highest level brings much-needed stability and leadership to the team’s forward pack.
The 32-year-old last played for Australia in September 2022 and is expected to make a major impact with his scrummaging power and calm presence. Pisi has also reshuffled his pack for the Namibia clash. Regular flankers Taleni Seu and captain Theo McFarland will move into the second row.
Giving Samoa extra height and strength in the lineout. Their shift opens the door for Moana Pasifika enforcer Miracle Failangi to start at blindside flanker. Wearing the number six jersey in his first appearance for Samoa this season.
Failangi enjoyed an impressive Super Rugby Pacific campaign with Moana Pasifika earlier this year. Before joining Hawke’s Bay in New Zealand’s National Provincial Championship. Now back in the Samoan setup, he will partner fellow Moana Pasifika teammate Alamanda Motuga on the openside. With Iakopo Mapu rounding out the back row at number eight.
Veteran halfback Jonathan Taumateine will start for the second time this season after missing earlier games due to domestic commitments. He will link up again with playmaker Rodney Iona, who continues to guide the backline.
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One of the standout names in the starting XV is Lalomilo Lalomilo, who earns his first start for Manu Samoa after impressing off the bench last week. Former sevens star Vaafauese Apelu Maliko, who scored a try against Brazil, retains his spot on the wing.
He will line up alongside Latrell Ah Kiong, while Jacob Umaga. Who has shown reliability with both his boot and his positioning continues at fullback, wearing the number 15 jersey. On the bench, Pisi has named experienced prop Michael Alaalatoa and powerful number eight Abraham Papali’i, both expected to make an impact when called upon.
Their presence gives Samoa a mix of experience and energy in the later stages of the match. A win over Namibia on Friday would officially secure Manu Samoa’s place at the Rugby World Cup 2027, locking in their qualification with a game to spare.
However, a loss would mean their final pool match against Belgium next week becomes a must-win decider. With a blend of seasoned veterans and exciting new faces, Samoa will aim to continue the momentum from their dominant victory over Brazil.
The addition of a world-class player like Scott Sio signals the team’s growing ambition. And determination to return to rugby’s biggest stage. As Pisi put it, the focus now is on consistency, composure, and taking one game at a time, starting with Namibia.
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