Tonga edges Samoa 20-18 in gripping Rugby League World Cup clash, knocking England out

Tonga defeated Samoa 20-18 in a thrilling Rugby League World Cup match in Parramatta, Australia, ending England's tournament on points difference. The game lived up to massive hype, with weeks of anticipation turning into a vibrant display of Pasifika pride. Days before kickoff, Tongan and Samoan flags flew from cars across the eastern seaboard, and five hours before the start, the streets of Parramatta were packed with fans from both nations celebrating their shared cultural bond. Despite both teams having essentially secured semifinal spots, they delivered an exhilarating derby. Fans paid record sums on black market and resale sites, while others snagged $20 tickets, calling it the buy of the year. The result sets up a semifinal clash for Tonga, likely against Australia, while Samoa also advances, but England's World Cup campaign ends in heartbreak.