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Rugby League World Cup 2026: Talking Points, semi finals, Samoa ill discipline, Kevin Walters selection calls vindicated, world cup final, news, opinion, analysis

It’s locked in. Australia will take on New Zealand in next Sunday’s World Cup final, a repeat of the epic thriller which kicked off the tournament.

By Matt Jones · FOX Sports Australia

Published: Sunday, 8 November 2026 at 7:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Tonga halfback Isaiya Katoa admitted his performance was not up to international standard after losing 34-10 to New Zealand.
New Zealand defeated Tonga 34-10 to secure a spot against Australia in the World Cup final.
Australia eliminated Samoa with a 44-12 victory, backed by a Reece Walsh hat trick.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Tonga halfback Isaiya Katoa admitted his second-half game management was not up to international standard following Tonga's 34-10 Rugby League World Cup semi-final defeat against New Zealand. Despite playing through an ankle injury, the 22-year-old playmaker was outmatched by Kiwis star Jahrome Hughes in adverse conditions in Newcastle, sending New Zealand through to face Australia in the final.

Several pundits, including Trent Robinson and Luke Keary, now argue that New Zealand enters the final as favorites over Australia. Meanwhile, Australia advanced by defeating Samoa 44-12, vindicating coach Kevin Walters' selection decisions to start Tom Dearden and Reece Walsh, the latter scoring a hat trick.

Read the full article on FOX Sports Australia