"As a group we believe we can win. The boys are really up for it. The challenge...is to stick with them for the whole game. We've got to win every little battle."
Nanai-Williams has returned to Samoa for the first time since he was five and described the experience as "awesome". He hopes Wednesday's match leads to many more international teams playing in Apia.
"It just means a whole lot to us," he said.
Meanwhile New Zealand High commissioner Jackie Frizelle told the newspaper the match was bringing the two countries together.
"It is clear the community here absolutely loves rugby and it's the same in New Zealand...this match is bringing those two communities together around the love of the game," she said.
"The feeling of excitement here this week is fantastic. I see the bunting coming out, the cars going past with flags, there's a real buzz about the place.
"People are ready to really have a great time and are putting out a warm welcome mat for the visitors from New Zealand."
Samoa (from): Wayne Ole Avei, Ma'atulimanu Leiataua, Viliamu Afatia, Census Johnston, Anthony Perenise, Sakaria Taulafo, Kane Thompson, Teofilo Paulo, Iosefa Tekori, Fa'atiga Lemalu, Alafoti Faosiliva, Jack Lam, Ofisa Treviranus (captain), Maurie Fa'asavalu, T.J. Ioane, Kahn Fotuali'i, Peleifofoga Cowley, Tusi Pisi, Michael Stanley, Alofa Alofa, Ken Pisi, Alesana Tuilagi, Faialaga Afamasaga, Johnny Leota, Paul Perez, Tim Nanai-Williams, Ah See Tuala.
