Tonga stun England with upset win in World Cup opener

Tonga have delivered a seismic shock in the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, defeating England 30-24 in a pulsating Group B-C opener in Perth ^[1]. The result sends shockwaves through the tournament, as England—ranked third globally—were expected to dominate their opening fixture against fifth-ranked Tonga.

The match turned on a pivotal moment in the 22nd minute, when England’s Victor Radley knocked on just yards from the try line after a brutal hit from Tonga captain Jason Taumalolo ^[1]. The turnover led directly to a try by Stefano Utoikamanu, who darted through after a precise inside pass from Isaiya Katoa.

Katoa, who also converted four penalties, was instrumental, with two of the kicks coming from controversial decisions. Harry Smith was penalised for obstruction despite a clean hit, and Herbie Farnworth was docked a penalty for tripping Dallin Watene-Zelezniak off the ball—both calls drawing criticism from England players and fans ^[1].

England briefly rallied after half-time, with full-back AJ Brimson scoring following a dynamic run by Young, who broke through two defenders over 20 metres ^[1]. A second try from Young briefly lifted morale, but Tonga responded with a devastating one-two punch: Haumole Olakau'atu pounced on a loose grubber kick, then Tolutau Koula powered over the line.

The final blow came when Katoa’s grubber kick exploited a defensive gap, allowing Olakau'atu to touch down for Tonga’s fourth try ^[1]. The win puts England’s campaign in jeopardy, with upcoming fixtures against France and Papua New Guinea now critical to secure a top-two finish and a semi-final berth.

Tonga’s blend of attacking flair, disciplined defence, and a fervent home crowd in Perth proved too much for the favourites ^[1]. The result echoes England’s painful semi-final loss to Samoa four years prior, now reversed in the Pacific island nation’s favour. The story was first reported by BBC News.