The rugby league Pacific Championships is back in 2025 for another instalment and such is the strength of the international game, this is one of the most anticipated competitions in recent memory. With players defecting away from higher ranked nations, pride and passion is on the line as they run out to represent their heritage. The stage is set for a great weekend of action. Before You Bet is here to look at the matches ahead.
Pacific Championships – Week 1 Preview & Betting Tips
Fiji Bati vs Cook Islands Aitu Prediction
These two sides renew their rivalry from recent years, and it has been Fiji who has won both fixtures. They were dominant in 2024, recording a 50-point victory when it appeared their opponents were spirited enough to cause their opponents concern. Unfortunately for the Auti team, the quality appears to still be missing from their lineup. Names like Bula, Turuva and Rinakama are strong attacking weapons. The Aitu have some strong forwards in Makatoa and Piakura, but where they lack quality, which is in the halves, will hurt them the most. This should keep the game tight early but eventually, the power of their opponents will be too much for them to handle. It is a large line set in a game of several uncertainties, but it should be covered in the end with a few late tries going the Bati’s way.
Fiji -16.5
$1.90 (2 units)
Fiji Bati vs Cook Islands Aitu Same Game Multi
Turuva, Rinakama & Bula to score: $3.70 at Ladbrokes (0.5 units) = They are the three key attacking weapons for their team and will have a large say in the outcome of this contest. Expect sweeping players to either side of the field. It will also be worth considering Bula for a double, as he will be the link between the halves, and the edges, with a great support game also giving him a chance to score.
Fiji vs Cook Islands Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Saturday 18th October
Location: Santos National Football Stadium, Port Moresby
Time: 4pm (AEDT)
Odds: Fiji $1.14 vs Cook Islands $5.75
Line: -16.5
Points: 49.5
New Zealand Kiwis vs Toa Samoa Prediction
The second game on Sunday heads to Auckland as the Kiwis host Samoa. Expected to be played in front of a passionate crowd, each team will set the standard prior to a ball being kicked. That moment is sure to be one to tune in for. This is an intriguing contest with two evenly matches teams doing battle. The Kiwis will benefit from playing this game at home and will be looking for an edge with Brown and Foran in the halves. It’s a surprising selection considering their club form this season, but their coach has shown loyalty towards them. It is sure to be a great battle in the forward pack also, with two large and powerful packs looking to assert their dominance. On face value, the Kiwis have an edge but Haas’ inclusion, combined with Luai and RTS working off the back of the platform he creates, is something which could cause the Kiwis concern. You could go on comparing each team and what (and what doesn’t) give them an edge. Hence, given this is each team’s first game of the competition, it is preferred to see what each offer first. One thing is for sure, this is going to be a close game and therefore, that is the way the investment should be made this week.
Either team by Less Than 6.5 points
$2.85 (2 units)
New Zealand vs Samoa Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Sunday 19th October
Location: Go Media Stadium, Auckland
Time: 4:05pm (AEDT)
Odds: New Zealand $1.70 vs Samoa $2.15
Line: -2.5
Points: 48.5
