New Zealand Defeat Fiji in Rugby League World Cup 2026
New Zealand secured a victory over Fiji in their Rugby League World Cup 2026 match, acknowledging a period of disorganization and a wake-up call for the team.
What happened
- New Zealand overcame an early lead by Fiji in their Rugby League World Cup 2026 match.
- Stacey Waaka scored early, but Fiji responded with tries from Sereana Naitokatoka and Losana Lutu, extending their lead.
- Sienna Laing added another try, and New Zealand briefly closed the gap with a score from Waaka.
- However, Fiji's defense remained strong, and New Zealand leveled the score with a penalty kick from Zehara Temara before taking the lead with a cross-field kick from Raecene McGregor to Leianne Tufuga.
- New Zealand player Georgia Hale stated the team needed to address their ill-disciplined play and untidy performance.
- Kalyn Ponga, playing for New Zealand, scored two tries and ran for 254 metres.
- Samoa also secured a victory against England, with Su'a Fa'alogo scoring four tries.
- Papua New Guinea also won their match, showcasing the emerging talent within the country.
Original reporting
- BBC: Rugby League World Cup 2026: New Zealand avoid massive shock against Fiji
2026-10-18T07:38:11+00:00 - ABC: RLWC quick hits: Ponga's power, Tonga's triumph and Fiji's sunny day
2026-10-19T01:21:13+00:00