New Zealand faces Fiji in crucial World Cup qualifier this weekend

Zero Tackle NRL • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 26, 2026, 1:09 AM

Last updated Oct 26, 2026

New Zealand faces Fiji in crucial World Cup qualifier this weekend
Summary

The final week of the group stage at the 2026 Rugby League World Cup features several critical matches. New Zealand must win against Fiji on Saturday, October 31, to secure a semi-final spot after accumulating two points thus far. Australia's position is solidified; they sit atop Group A with four points and will play the Cook Islands later that day. In Group B/C, matches on Friday and Sunday will determine the fate of England and Papua New Guinea, both needing favorable results to advance. England requires a win over Papua New Guinea while hoping for Tonga to defeat Samoa. Conversely, Papua New Guinea must beat Samoa to improve their chances.

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Key Details
  • •New Zealand must win against Fiji to advance.
  • •Australia has already secured top position in Group A.
  • •England needs Tonga to defeat Samoa to qualify.
  • •Papua New Guinea's advancement hinges on winning against Samoa.
  • •The final games of the group stage are set for October 30 and 31.
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  • 1:09 AMZero Tackle NRL — Every Rugby League World Cup qualification scenario: What every Week 3 game can change, predictions
What they're saying
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Seven of the 10 teams can mathematically still make the semi-finals.

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