Samoa is just one victory away from securing their spot in the 2026 World Cup after defeating Tonga 30-16 on Saturday night in Suva.
Samoa got off to a flying start, establishing a 10-point lead within the first 10 minutes. However, Tonga fought back bravely and narrowed the deficit to just four points with 15 minutes remaining. In the end, Samoa finished strong, scoring two late tries to secure a comfortable victory.
Jamie Soward’s team will now face the winner of the upcoming Pacific Bowl match between Fiji and Cook Islands. The match, scheduled for November 3 in Auckland, will determine which team will join Samoa at the RLWC2026.
For Tonga, their hopes of qualification have come to an end for this cycle. Despite a strong start and displaying superiority for much of the game at HFC Bank Stadium, Samoa found it challenging to shake off Tonga, hampered by critical errors.
Standout performances from Titans’ forward Sienna Lofipo, former Jillaroo Evania Pelite, and long-time Kiwi Fern Annetta-Claudia Nu’auasala helped Samoa’s efforts, while both Jessica Patea and Gold Coast rookie Sarina Masaga each scored two tries.
Following strong contributions from Masaga and Lofipo within the first 10 minutes, along with a penalty goal from Pauline Piliae-Rasabale, Tonga began to find their footing around the 20-minute mark. They fought back, with Filomina Hanisi scoring a try to close the gap.
Lofipo made a crucial turnover with nine minutes left in the first half, enabling Samoa to score two quick tries. Patea found the corner, and Masaga added her second try. However, an opportunity to extend their lead was missed when Piliae-Rasabale dropped the ball at the start of the second half, allowing Takapautolo to score for Tonga.
This ignited Tonga’s momentum, and just six minutes into the second half, Lavinia Tauhalaliku scored a converted try to bring Tangerine’s within four points. A chance to tie was missed when Takapautolo fumbled the ball after a knock-on from Pelite.
Five minutes later, Samoa regained control and scored through Patea before Lindsay Tui sealed the victory with a late try, ensuring the outcome was no longer in doubt.