Fotuali’i will line up against seven of his regional colleagues at the Millennium Stadium with the likes of Justin Tipuric, Dan Biggar and Ashley Beck all starting for Wales against the South Sea Islanders.
The scrum-half, who has been in top form for the Ospreys so far this season, is more used to teaming up with the likes of Biggar than taking them on directly. And he acknowledges tonight’s game will be a different experience.
“It’s going to be a very interesting one. I’m definitely looking forward to playing amongst some of my peers from the Ospreys team,” he said.
“It’s a huge test in itself but I’m not focusing on them as individuals but as a whole which is the main threat.”
Fotuali’i has been picked out as one of the main threats by a Wales squad who are determined to bounce back from their defeat to Argentina. And though he accepts the praise, Fotuali’i knows the test his Ospreys colleagues will provide.
“I guess it is a little bit flattering but I see a threat in them as well,” he added.
“All those players from the Ospreys have been playing really well this year so they won’t lose too much with them in the side, if anything I reckon they’re a stronger side.
“They’ll probably use the ball a bit more. Someone like Tipuric is an amazing player, he’s good over the ball and has got awesome skills. He could play in the backline if he wanted to!
“I hope they play really well but not too well.”
Samoa prepared for today’s clash by taking on Russia in Colwyn Bay last weekend. And their powerful, attacking, offloading game was in evidence as they dismantled the Russian defence in a 42-12 win.
“It was a different experience but the people and the environment were really nice,” commented Fotuali’i.
“The Samoan people enjoyed the company and surroundings of the north Wales people. They’re very welcoming.
“The boys have built a bit of confidence in their attack but there’s still a lot we need to work on defensively and also in attack. We didn’t play the best game and Canada stuck at it through the 80 minutes. We know we’ve got another level to step up to against the Welsh boys.”
Winger Robert Lilomaiava crossed for four tries against Kingsley Jones’ Russian side though the 20-year-old has to settle for a place on the bench against Wales.
David Lemi leads the side with Fotuali’I welcoming the captain’s contribution.
“Lemi is an x factor player and provides great leadership,” he said.
“He’s one of the most capped Samoan players at the moment. He doesn’t really talk too much but he’ll be leading by his actions.”
