Tonga have beaten Samoa 20–18 in one of the standout matches of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, with a crowd of 29,411 at CommBank Stadium in Sydney.
The two Pacific rivals traded momentum throughout a contest that was still undecided in the final minutes. Tonga led 8–4 at halftime and stretched their advantage to 14–4 before Samoa fought back.
Brian To'o scored twice for Samoa, with Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Ronald Volkman also crossing. Volkman's converted try put Samoa ahead 18–14, but Tonga forward Addin Fonua-Blake crashed over near the posts and Isaiya Katoa converted to restore a two-point lead.
Samoa nearly stole the match when Sua Fa'alogo went close in the corner, only for his foot to touch the sideline. Tonga held on for an emotional victory.
The result sets up two major World Cup semi-finals: Tonga face New Zealand in Newcastle on Saturday 7 November, while Samoa meet Australia in Sydney on Sunday 8 November.
Samoa also face concern over Chanel Harris-Tavita, who left the field with a hamstring injury. His availability will depend on further medical assessment.
The crowd and the intensity of the match offered another reminder of the appeal of international Pacific rugby league.
