England facing World Cup exit after shock Tonga loss
World No. 3 England lost 30-12 to Tonga and now face near-certain elimination from the Rugby League World Cup.
England suffered a 30-12 loss to Tonga in Perth on Saturday night, leaving the side on the brink of elimination. The Rugby League World Cup uses a group format where only two teams from pools B and C progress to the semi-finals.
After one loss, England's path is razor-thin. If Samoa beat Tonga and avoid an upset loss to Papua New Guinea, both teams would finish on two wins, but Tonga advances on head-to-head.
If Tonga beat Samoa instead, Samoa and Tonga likely finish two-win and unbeaten respectively, with Samoa's 78-4 win over France giving them a huge points-difference advantage. Coach Brian McDermott said his team would not pile on massive points in remaining matches, calling that disrespectful to opponents.
He said he saw enough against Tonga to suggest England is "heading in the right direction".
- No. 3
- England ranking
- 30-12 to Tonga
- Loss margin
- Two from pools B and C
- Teams advancing
- Two group matches
- Games remaining
Why it mattersA confusing World Cup format has knocked a top-three team to the brink of elimination after just one loss, raising questions about tournament structure.
AustraliaThe Rugby League World Cup being held in Australia features England in a near-certain exit scenario that has frustrated fans and officials.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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