‘Ikale Tahi could not defeat Spain’s Los Leones (lions) strong attack in a score of 32-19 in their Rugby World Cup 2027 qualifying clash in .
The visitors controlled much of the opening exchanges but had only a penalty goal to show for their dominance as Tonga's defence held firm through the opening 20 minutes.
Tonga struck first against the run of play in the 22nd minute when captain Sonatane Takulua produced a clever pick-up and dummy from close range to score. The try marked a memorable milestone for the veteran scrum-half, who became Tonga's most-capped player.
Spain responded quickly through scrum-half Estanislao Bay, who sliced through the defence to level the scores before Antonio Ray Suarez crossed to give Los Leones a commanding advantage heading into halftime.
Scoring opportunities remained scarce after the break as both sides defended resolutely before flanker Ignacio Pineiro Molla extended Spain's lead following an impressive aerial take by John Wessel Bell.
Tonga continued to challenge the Spanish defence and remained competitive throughout the contest, but Spain's attacking quality proved decisive.
Centre Inaki Mateu effectively sealed the result when he regathered his own grubber kick to score, putting the match beyond Tonga's reach.
Taniela Filimone crossed late for Tonga in a deserved consolation, but Spain held on for a 32-19 victory.
The result was a positive response from Los Leones after they were denied victory by Canada with a last-minute score in their previous outing, while Tonga were left to reflect on another spirited performance that ultimately fell short.
