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England’s men exit Rugby League World Cup despite Tonga’s gripping win over Samoa

England’s men have been eliminated from the Rugby League World Cup on points difference after Tonga’s 20-18 victory over Samoa. Brian McDermott’s side required Tonga to beat Samoa by 47 points or more to progress and it means it is…

By Gavin Willacy · The Guardian

Published: Sunday, 1 November 2026 at 11:05 AM

Key Things to Know

Tonga defeated Samoa 20-18 in a thrilling Rugby League World Cup clash at CommBank Stadium.
The result confirmed England's elimination from the Rugby League World Cup on points difference.
Robert Toia and Brian To'o each scored two tries during the intense encounter.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Tonga secured a thrilling 20-18 victory against Samoa in a Rugby League World Cup derby at CommBank Stadium in Parramatta. The gripping result confirmed England's exit from the tournament on points difference. Both teams displayed exceptional pride in front of a ground record crowd of 29,411 spectators.

Robert Toia scored twice for Tonga before Brian To'o struck back with two tries for Samoa. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Ronald Volkman pushed Samoa ahead late, but Addin Fonua-Blake broke through to tie the game before Isaiya Katoa kicked the winning conversion.

Read the full article on The Guardian

England’s men exit Rugby League World Cup despite Tonga’s gripping win over Samoa

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