The USA Men’s Eagles rugby team will open their 2026 Pacific Nations Cup campaign against the Japan Brave Blossoms on Saturday in Osaka, Japan, with kickoff at 6 a.m. ET. This match marks a key clash in a tournament that serves as an important warm-up ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, where both teams are drawn in the same pool.
Japan has dominated this rivalry over the past decade, including a 41-27 victory over the USA in last year’s Pacific Nations Cup in Sacramento. The USA last defeated Japan in 2015, placing added pressure on the Eagles to reverse the trend at the Pacific Nations Cup opener.
Led by captain Jason Damm, the USA squad includes 21 players with Major League Rugby experience, featuring eight members from the unbeaten MLR champion Chicago Hounds. Key contributors such as halfbacks Ruben De Haas and Chris Hilsenbeck will be pivotal alongside fullback Mitch Wilson, who is set to start.
The Eagles come off a five-match winning streak, including a sweep in the July Nations Cup and a recent win over Argentina XV. Head coach Scott Lawrence emphasizes the need for physicality and disciplined control, especially given potentially humid and wet conditions in Osaka.
As a tribute to the fallen heroes of September 11th, the USA players will wear jerseys bearing their names on the back, honoring their memory during the match. This year’s Pacific Nations Cup features only two initial matches, with winners advancing to face each other and losers competing in a consolation game the following week.
CSB Take
This Pacific Nations Cup opener against Japan is a crucial measure of the USA Men’s Eagles’ development as they prepare for the Rugby World Cup next year. Overcoming a side that has outpaced them for over a decade would be a significant milestone. With a core of experienced Major League Rugby talent and strong leadership from captain Jason Damm, the Eagles are positioned to translate their recent momentum into a competitive performance despite challenging conditions in Osaka.
Source: Original report
