Sports · Other Sports · 4 hrs ago
Australia beat Samoa 44-12 to reach Rugby League World Cup final
Australia beat Samoa 44-12 in a men’s Rugby League World Cup semi-final in Sydney.
Reece Walsh scored three tries as Australia built a 26-2 lead by half-time.
Samoa had taken an early lead with a penalty, but errors and penalties helped Australia take control.
Samoa scored twice after the break, but Australia stayed in front and finished with eight tries.
Samoa also disputed several refereeing decisions, including two tries that were ruled out.
Australia now face New Zealand in Brisbane next Sunday for the title, in a repeat of the 2022 final.
Australia are seeking a fourth consecutive World Cup win.
Australia beat Samoa 44-12 in Sydney to reach the men’s Rugby League World Cup final against New Zealand.
Reece Walsh scored a hat-trick as Australia ran in eight tries.
Australia led 26-2 at half-time and was ahead 38-12 just before the 70-minute mark.
Samoa was left aggrieved by refereeing decisions, including two tries ruled out.
The final is scheduled for Brisbane on November 15.
- Who
- Australia and Samoa contested the semi-final. Australia advanced to the final.
- What
- Australia won 44-12 to reach the men’s Rugby League World Cup final.
- When
- Sunday, November 8, 2026.
- Where
- Allianz Stadium in Sydney, Australia.
- Why
- Australia won the semi-final and qualified to face New Zealand in the final.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Samoa took a 2-0 lead with a penalty.
Tom Dearden scored a converted try to put Australia ahead.
Australia led 26-2.
Reece Walsh completed his hat-trick to put Australia 38-12 ahead.
Australia won 44-12 and advanced to the final.
- Final score
- Australia 44, Samoa 12
- Tries
- Australia scored eight
- Reece Walsh
- Scored a hat-trick
- Half-time score
- Australia 26, Samoa 2
- Final venue
- Brisbane
- Final date
- November 15, 2026
6 sources
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