England Keep Nerve in 68-Point Rugby League World Cup Semi-Final Push

The Guardian Sport · 2026-10-29
England Keep Nerve in 68-Point Rugby League World Cup Semi-Final Push

England's Rugby League World Cup hopes hinge on a 68-point swing in the final group games after a stunning 82-0 win over France revived their campaign. Head coach Brian McDermott has urged his side to "hold their nerve" as they face a "difficult situation to negotiate" following a shock defeat to Tonga in their opener. The tournament's reduced 10-team format has left little margin for error, but England remain alive, needing a big win over Samoa and a favorable result elsewhere to reach the semi-finals. McDermott's men must now replicate their clinical display against France, with the coach emphasizing composure under pressure. The scenario is unlikely but not impossible, and England's fate is no longer entirely in their own hands. A semi-final spot would be a remarkable turnaround after the Tonga loss, and the team must focus on delivering another dominant performance on Friday. The Rugby League World Cup's unpredictable group stage has set up a dramatic finale, and England's resilience will be tested to the limit.