Toa Samoa and PNG Kumuls battle for World Cup quarterfinal spot
Both teams won round one; Saturday's Rugby League World Cup match will determine progression to the quarterfinals.
Toa Samoa and PNG Kumuls both won their opening matches in the 2026 Rugby League World Cup and now face off on Saturday in Port Moresby in a clash that could decide who advances to the next round. PNG Kumuls are playing at home with strong local support, while Samoa brings a squad packed with NRL stars.
Samoa made changes to their squad, bringing in winger Sua Fa'alogo to replace the injured Deine Mariner, who suffered a hamstring injury in round one. PNG has named halfback Bailey Biondi-Odo and several other key players to their starting lineup.
Whichever team wins will have a strong chance of finishing in the top two in their pool and progressing through the tournament.
- Round 2, 2026 Rugby League World Cup
- Round
- Port Moresby on Saturday
- Venue
- Bailey Biondi-Odo
- PNG halfback
Why it mattersA win determines whether the Pacific island nation progresses toward a World Cup quarterfinal berth.
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