Samoa has announced the co-captains for its Rugby World Cup squad, with Chris Vui and Michael Ala’alatoa taking on the leadership roles. The team, which includes three former All Blacks players, is gearing up for the tournament in France next month.
Vui, who plays as a loose forward for Bristol, and Ala’alatoa, a prop for Leinster, have been named as co-captains of the Samoan squad. The team consists of 32 players, with one spot yet to be filled.
Samoa’s journey in the Rugby World Cup will kick off with a Pool D match against Chile on September 16. They will then face Argentina, Japan, and England in their preliminary matches.
Seilala Mapuusa, the coach of the Samoan team, has selected three former New Zealand internationals for the squad. Flyhalf Lima Sopoaga, flanker Steven Luatua, and prop Charlie Faumuina will bring their experience and expertise to the team. Additionally, Australian flyhalf Christian Leali’ifano, who represented his country in the 2019 World Cup, has also been included.
While Samoa, previously known as Western Samoa, did not participate in the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987, they have played in every tournament since. Their best performances came in 1991 and 1995 when they reached the quarterfinals.
In the last World Cup held in Japan in 2019, Samoa won only one of their group games and failed to qualify for the knockout rounds. This time around, the team aims to make a stronger impact on the global stage.
The Samoan squad for the Rugby World Cup comprises a talented group of players, including Neria Foma’i, Alai D’Angelo Leuila, Nigel Ah Wong, Ben Lam, Ed Fidow, Tumua Manu, Danny Toala, Ulupano Junior Seuteni, Duncan Paia’aua, Lima Sopoaga, Christian Leali’ifano, Jonathan Taumateine, Ereatara Enari, and Melani Matavao in the backs.
The forward pack includes Fritz Lee, So’otala Fa’aso’o, Jordan Taufua, Alamanda Motuga, Miracle Fai’ilagi, Steven Luatua, Taleni Seu, Chris Vui, Sam Slade, Theo McFarland, Brian Alainu’uese, Charlie Faumuina, Paul Alo-Emile, Michael Ala’alatoa, Jordan Lay, Seilala Lam, Sama Malolo, and Luteru Tolai.
As the countdown to the Rugby World Cup begins, Samoa’s team will be focused on preparations and teamwork to showcase their skills and determination on the field. With the leadership of Vui and Ala’alatoa, along with the experienced former All Blacks players, Samoa aims to deliver a memorable performance in the upcoming tournament.
