Fiji rallied from 28-0 down to beat Tonga 41-38, while Japan shocked hosts Samoa 31-23 in the second round of rugby's Pacific Nations Cup on Saturday.

Japan were given little chance against the powerful Samoans, who beat Tonga 24-23 in the tournament's opening round, but the Japanese controlled the match and eased to victory after leading 25-6 at halftime.

The win lifted Japan to second place in the tournament standings with a win and a loss from two games after their 22-8 first round defeat to leaders Fiji.

They lead third-placed Samoa on points difference while Tonga are at the bottom of the four-nation ladder with three bonus points from two games.

Fiji staged a thrilling comeback to win their second straight game and lead the tournament with nine points, ahead of Japan with four.

The Fijians are bidding to become the first Pacific team to win the Cup, which has been dominated since its inception in 2006 by New Zealand teams.

The withdrawal of New Zealand and Australian teams this year left the door open to a Pacific winner.

Fiji were still 28-10 behind Tonga at halftime on Saturday, but ran in a total of five tries to win and claim a four-try bonus point.

Winger Malakai Bakaniceva, prop Campese Ma'afu, replacement scrumhalf Kelemedi Bola, captain Domoniko Waqaniburotu and lock Sekonaia Kalou scored Fiji's tries while fullback Taniela Rawaqa kicked five conversion and two penalties.

"We knew Tonga would close the ball from going wide, so we just revolved play from the fringes of the ruck and opened it from there," Waqaniburotu told Fijian media.

"The win proves our bond as a team and working towards a common goal to be able to fight back like that, so we dedicate the win to the team and our fans."

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