France and Fiji Battle in Nations Championship 2026
France prepares to face Fiji in Round 4 of the Nations Championship, seeking to extend their lead while Fiji aims for their first win.
On Saturday, November 7, 2026, the rugby world will turn its attention to Lyon, France, as France clashes with Fiji in Round 4 of the Nations Championship. The match is set to kick off at 3:10 p.m. ET at the Parc Olympique Lyonnais.
Current Standings
As the tournament progresses, France finds itself at the forefront of the Northern Hemisphere standings with 12 points accumulated from three matches. With a record of two victories and one defeat, France boasts a strong +41 point differential. In contrast, Fiji is currently struggling after three losses, resulting in zero points and a negative differential of -96.
France is coming off a decisive victory against Japan, where they triumphed 42-15. Fiji, on the other hand, enters this match seeking redemption after a 33-17 defeat to Scotland.
Starting Lineups
Both teams have announced their starting lineups for this crucial matchup:
France's Starting XV
- Jean-Baptiste Gros — Prop
- Maxime Lamothe — Hooker
- Sipili Falatea — Prop
- Florian Verhaeghe — Lock
- Mickaël Guillard — Lock
- Cameron Woki — Back Row
- Paul Boudehent — Back Row
- François Cros — Back Row
- Antoine Dupont — Scrum-Half
- Romain Ntamack — Fly-Half
- Louis Bielle-Biarrey — Outside Back
- Yoram Moefana — Centre
- Kalvin Gourgues — Centre
- Aaron Grandidier — Outside Back
- Théo Attissogbe — Outside Back
Fiji's Starting XV
- Eroni Mawi — Prop
- Tevita Ikanivere — Hooker (Captain)
- Luke Tagi — Prop
- Mesake Vocevoce — Lock
- Isoa Nasilasila — Lock
- Pita-Gus Sowakula — Back Row
- Kitione Salawa — Back Row
- Nathan Hughes — Back Row
- Simione Kuruvoli — Scrum-Half
- Isikeli Rabitu — Fly-Half
- Jiuta Wainiqolo — Outside Back
- Vinaya Habosi — Centre
- Iosefo Masi — Centre
- Selestino Ravutaumada — Outside Back
- Salesi Rayasi — Outside Back
Nations Championship Context
With several rounds completed, the standings show a significant disparity between the two teams. France's skilled roster and solid performances have propelled them to the top of the table, while Fiji remains in search of their first Nations Championship win. This match is vital for Fiji as they aim to break their losing streak and establish momentum.
Key statistics reveal contrasting styles—Fiji leads the tournament with 50 offloads, showcasing their dynamic attacking play. Conversely, France's defensive prowess is reflected in their third-place ranking for tackles, with 559 recorded thus far, highlighting their strategic approach to the match.
Refereeing and Viewing Details
The officiating team for the match includes:
- Referee: Karl Dickson
- Assistant Referee 1: Damian Schneider
- Assistant Referee 2: Katsuki Furuse
- Television Match Official (TMO): Ian Tempest
- Foul Play Review Officer (FPRO): Leo Colgan
For those wanting to watch the match, coverage will be available via FloRugby, which consistently delivers rugby action year-round. Fans should check local listings to ensure they can catch all the excitement.