Tonga beat Samoa 20–18 at CommBank Stadium in Sydney on Sunday 1 November, in the last match of the men's pool stage of the Rugby League World Cup 2026. Mate Ma'a Tonga finish with three wins from three and top the combined Pool B and C table, and both sides reach the semi-finals.
Tonga vs Samoa: the result in context
Both teams came into the sold-out match unbeaten. The two-point margin mirrors their last World Cup meeting, when Samoa won a 2022 quarter-final by the same 20–18 score, and it follows Samoa's 34–6 win at the 2025 Pacific Championships.
| Pool stage | Tonga | Samoa |
|---|---|---|
| Round 1 | Beat England 30–12 | Beat France 78–4 |
| Round 2 | Beat Lebanon 36–0 | Beat Papua New Guinea 64–6 |
| Round 3 | Beat Samoa 20–18 | Lost to Tonga 18–20 |
We add try-scorers and match details only once we can confirm them. For the score and kick-off details, see the Tonga vs Samoa match page.
What it means for the semi-finals
Tonga reach the semi-finals for the first time since 2017, when they lost 20–18 to England. They now play New Zealand in Newcastle on Saturday 7 November.
Samoa, runners-up to Australia in the 2021 final, play Australia in Sydney on Sunday 8 November. That is a rematch of the final Australia won 30–10.
Read our full guide to who plays who in the RLWC 2026 semi-finals.
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Frequently asked questions
What was the Tonga vs Samoa score?
Tonga won 20–18 on Sunday 1 November 2026 at CommBank Stadium, Sydney.
Who does Tonga play in the semi-final?
Tonga play New Zealand on Saturday 7 November at McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle, kicking off at 8:05 PM AEDT.
Who does Samoa play in the semi-final?
Samoa play Australia on Sunday 8 November at Allianz Stadium, Sydney, kicking off at 8:05 PM AEDT.
Did Samoa qualify after losing to Tonga?
Yes. Samoa finished second in the combined Pool B and C table and reach the semi-finals.