\n<\/p>\n
When it comes to men\u2019s rugby at the Olympics, one nation dominates: Fiji.<\/p>\n
The Pacific islanders triumphed at the inaugural tournament in 2016 – winning the country\u2019s first ever Olympic gold medal – and defended their title in Tokyo three years ago.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe players are just monstrous, in strength, size and speed,\u201d Habana said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey\u2019re just so good at what they do. If you’re not able to compete with them physically, nine times out of 10 you’re going to find yourself wanting.\u201d<\/p>\n
Habana came up against Fiji before their first Olympic title \u2013 an encounter that left its mark.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was as physical and as fast-paced as I’ve ever experienced any type of rugby,\u201d he explained.<\/p>\n
\u201cAt times, it felt like you were chasing ghosts.\u201d<\/p>\n
Known for their fast-paced game based on physicality at the breakdown, swift offloads and capitalising on broken field in possession, Fiji\u2019s bid for a third successive Olympic gold might not be straightforward.<\/p>\n
They finished sixth in this season\u2019s SVNS circuit, failing to pick up an event victory, after parting company with head coach Ben Gollings in March.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey’ve also gone through a massive transition phase and they’ve actually been struggling on the field,\u201d said Habana.<\/p>\n
So, if he were a coach, how would Habana go about beating the defending champions?<\/p>\n
\u201cOne of the great things when you play against Fiji is to try to keep it as structured as possible.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf you don’t use the opportunities, which are very limited throughout the course of 14 minutes, you’re going to come up wanting because they can score a try out of nothing.<\/p>\n
\u201cKeep it tight, and don\u2019t be scared to physically test them. But make sure that you don’t stop being relentless for the full 14 minutes.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n