Sports · Other Sports · 5 hrs ago
Jamayne Isaako's kicking gives New Zealand an edge before World Cup final
New Zealand beat Tonga 34-10 to reach the rugby league World Cup final, with Jamayne Isaako kicking accurately in severe weather.
Isaako finished the 2026 NRL season as its top scorer, with 310 points, the third-highest single-season total in league history.
In the World Cup, he has kicked 36 goals from 38 attempts and scored 64 points across matches against the Cook Islands and Fiji.
His reliable goal-kicking could be crucial as New Zealand seeks its second World Cup title.
Australia has several players who can kick goals, but none has Isaako's record as a specialist kicker.
Isaako and New Zealand face Australia in the final, which will bring the rugby league year to a close on Sunday night.
Jamayne Isaako’s goal-kicking could give New Zealand an advantage over Australia in the World Cup final.
Isaako kicked goals in difficult, rainy conditions as New Zealand beat Tonga 34-10 in the semifinal.
He has kicked 36 goals from 38 attempts at the World Cup.
Isaako finished the 2026 NRL season with 310 points, the third-highest single-season total in league history.
New Zealand are seeking their second World Cup title.
- Who
- New Zealand and Australia, with Jamayne Isaako a key player for New Zealand.
- What
- New Zealand’s goal-kicking form could provide an edge in the World Cup final.
- When
- The final is scheduled for Sunday night; the article was published on November 10, 2026.
- Where
- The semifinal was played in Newcastle. The final’s location is not stated.
- Why
- Isaako has been highly accurate, and New Zealand need every advantage against Australia.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Isaako kicked goals in difficult weather as New Zealand beat Tonga 34-10.
New Zealand are due to face Australia in the World Cup final.
- Semifinal score
- New Zealand 34-10 Tonga
- World Cup kicking
- 36 goals from 38 attempts
- 2026 NRL points
- 310
- Season points ranking
- Third-highest single-season mark in league history
- New Zealand’s final opponent
- Australia
What people are saying
I had no idea where I was aiming the ball.
This year has probably been the best for kicking for me.
It's something I pride myself on.