Fiji have set social media alight after a stunning performance saw them defeat Australia for the first time in 69 years, securing a 22-15 Rugby World Cup victory.

Current professionals, legends of the game and fans rushed to social media to congratulate the Fijians on their historic victory over Eddie Jones’ side.

Reaction to Fiji’s victory over Australia

Fellow Pacific Islanders were quick to praise the Fijians as Samoa and Bristol Bears flanker Steven Luatua was one of those to applaud Fiji.

“Fiji leading the way for the Pacific. Wow. @radradra_semi. Woof woof,” the Samoan posted on X, formerly Twitter.

His teammate Jordan Taufua added, “Congratulations @fijirugby what a game!!! Toso Viti Toso!”

Former Fiji wing Nemani Nadolo praised the efforts of his fellow countrymen.

“Fiji is no longer a 60min team.. they outmuscled and outclassed Australia in every area for the FULL 80mins,” his post read.

Tonga centre Malakai Fekitoa was short and sweet, posting ‘Congratulations Fiji.’

Former All Blacks centre Sonny Bill Williams joined in the celebrations posting, “Congratulations @fijirugby! It’s been 69yrs since they last tasted victory V Australia. Bula brothers”

Williams’ post came after he wrote pre-match: “Fiji haven’t beat the Wallabies in 69 years. Is today the day?!”

Former Fiji sevens head coach Ben Ryan struggled to contain his joy in the result.

He posted: “Yessssss! Exactly what was deserved! Beautiful Viti – Totoka Levu!!!!” before posting a clip of him celebrating.

2003 Rugby World Cup-winning prop with England, Phil Vickery, gushed over the Pacific Islanders’ performance.

“I never stopped loving Fiji, but now I’m head over heals … what a wonderful moment for our game,” he posted.

Fijian Minister Pio Tikoduadua called on fans to celebrate the win but urged the public to still go to work on Monday.

His post read: “Wear something blue to work. But, go to work!”

Former Wallabies playmaker Matt Giteau added: “Congrats @fijirugby.. massive result and well deserved! Next game against wales will be huge for us.”

Pundits and fans

Popular rugby columnist Paul Williams hailed Fiji’s performance, writing “Stunning from Fiji. Simply stunning.”

Meanwhile, New Zealand writer Jamie Wall poked fan at coach Jones’ decision not to select Michael Hooper in his World Cup squad, posting an image of the former Wallabies captain.

Renowned South African journalist Jon Cardinelli hailed Simon Raiwalui’s side for their opening two matches as they blew Pool C wide open.

“Glorious win for Fiji. They’ve banked 6 points from 2 toughest pool games (should have been 9 though…). Pool C set for a brutal finish. Fiji should bank maximum points v Portugal, Georgia. Wales v Aus result so crucial for Wallabies. PD may be decisive!” his post read.

Will Owen wrote: “This is the most complete Fiji team we’ve seen at a World Cup, and it gives them boundless amounts of space to do their flashy/boomfa s**t. I’m so pleased for them.”

While Squidge Rugby added that Fiji’s win puts “Wales’ performance last week in a whole new perspective.”

Sam Larner said that it was a big win for Fiji, even if it didn’t feel like an upset.

“Massive result that for Fiji, even if it never really felt like an upset. Fiji in control for so much of it. Australia looked dreadful. Fiji advancing here would be exceptional and I’d say they were 7/10 there. I’m longing for a 10/10 Fiji performance just once….” he wrote.

ABC Journalist Lice Movono summed it up brilliantly.

“Vacava ga ni ratou sa soccer tu in the second half !!! Beautiful, emotional and such a well-deserved win. Fiji beats Australia, after 69 years,” she wrote.

READ MORE: David Campese exclusive: Five takeaways as Wallabies a ‘painful’ watch against ‘bloody brilliant’ Fiji

The article ‘Most complete Fiji team we’ve seen at a World Cup’ – Reaction to historic win over Australia appeared first on Planetrugby.com.