Australia has emerged victorious in both the men's and women's Rugby League World Cup finals, solidifying their dominance in the international game. In addition, England claimed the wheelchair title by defeating France in a thrilling match. Let's take a closer look at the highlights of this prestigious event.
Australia's Continued Dominance
Australia's national teams, both men and women, displayed exceptional skill and teamwork throughout the tournament. They showcased their unwavering dominance, securing the championship for the third consecutive time. The Australian players proved once again why they are considered powerhouses in the sport.
James Tedesco of Australia lifts the Rugby League World Cup trophy. (Image source: Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
The Final Showdown
In the highly anticipated final, Australia faced off against Samoa. The Kangaroos displayed remarkable skill and determination, eventually defeating Samoa with a score of 30-10. The Australians demonstrated their unwavering class and maintained their lead throughout the intense match.
Semifinals and Quarterfinals
Before reaching the final, Australia faced tough competition in the semifinals. They outplayed New Zealand with a close score of 16-14. Meanwhile, England experienced a nail-biting clash against Samoa, narrowly securing a 27-26 victory.
The quarterfinals witnessed some incredible performances as well. Australia dominated Lebanon with a resounding 48-4 win, while England showcased their strength by defeating Papua New Guinea with a scoreline of 46-6. New Zealand also faced tough opposition from Fiji, ultimately emerging victorious with a 24-18 win. Tonga displayed their tenacity but fell short with a close 18-20 loss to Samoa.
Australia's players pose with the winner's trophy during the presentation ceremony after the Rugby League World Cup Women's final. (Image source: OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)
Group Stage Results
Throughout the group stage, teams battled fiercely to secure their positions. Here are some notable results:
Group A:
- England 60-6 Samoa
- Australia 42-8 Fiji
- Scotland 4-28 Italy
- Jamaica 2-48 Ireland
- New Zealand 34-12 Lebanon
- France 34-12 Greece
- Tonga 24-18 Papua New Guinea
- Wales 12-18 Cook Islands
Group B:
- Australia 84-0 Scotland
- Fiji 60-4 Italy
- England 42-18 France
- New Zealand 68-6 Jamaica
- Lebanon 32-14 Ireland
- Samoa 72-4 Greece
- Tonga 32-6 Wales
- Papua New Guinea 32-16 Cook Islands
Group C:
- New Zealand 48-10 Ireland
- England 94-4 Greece
- Fiji 30-14 Scotland
- Australia 66-6 Italy
- Lebanon 74-12 Jamaica
- Tonga 92-10 Cook Islands
- Samoa 62-4 France
- Papua New Guinea 36-0 Wales
Squads: Key Players
Throughout the tournament, several key players showcased their exceptional skills and contributed to their team's success. Let's take a look at some of the standout performers:
England:
- Sam Tomkins
- Tommy Makinson
- Kallum Watkins
- Herbie Farnworth
- Ryan Hall
- Jack Welsby
- George Williams
- Tom Burgess
- Michael McIlorum
- Luke Thompson
- Elliott Whitehead
- John Bateman
- Victor Radley
Samoa:
- Joseph Suaalii
- Taylan May
- Izack Tago
- Stephen Crichton
- Brian To'o
- Jarome Luai
- Anthony Milford
- Josh Papalii
- Danny Levi
- Junior Paulo
- Royce Hunt
- Jaydn Su'a
- Josh Aloiai
France:
- Morgan Escaré
- Arthur Romano
- Samisoni Langi
- Matthieu Laguerre
- Fouad Yaha
- Arthur Mourgue
- Tony Gigot
- Jordan Dezaria
- Alrix Da Costa
- Lambert Belmas
- Benjamin Jullien
- Paul Séguier
- Benjamin Garcia
Greece:
- Jordan Meads
- Lachlan Ilias
- Stefanos Bastas
- Nikoloas Bosmos
- Terry Constantinou
- Jake Kambos
- John Mitsias
- Nick Mougios
- Rob Tuliatu
- Sebastian Sell
- Chaise Robinson
- Kosta Katsidonis
- Mitchell Zampetides
Josh Addo-Carr of Australia goes over to score. (Image source: Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
Conclusion
The Rugby League World Cup showcased incredible talent, fierce competition, and unforgettable moments. Australia's double victory in the men's and women's categories solidified their status as the leading force in the sport. Meanwhile, England's triumph in the wheelchair competition added another thrilling chapter to the tournament's history. This event will be remembered as a testament to the passion and skill of rugby league athletes from around the world.
