New Zealand women rally to secure win over Fiji in World Cup opener
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 18, 2026, 6:24 AM
Last updated Oct 18, 2026
New Zealand's women faced a challenge in their first game of the World Cup against Fiji on October 17, 2026. Trailing 12-4 in the first half, New Zealand fought back to win 18-12, marking the first time they were behind at halftime in a World Cup match. Fiji's Sereana Naitokatoka and Losana Lutu sparked the scoring with a try each, putting New Zealand under pressure. Despite some struggles, New Zealand managed to regain control with key penalty kicks and a late try from Leianne Tufuga, securing their victory with time running out. They will next face France in Group B, while Fiji is set to play Papua New Guinea.
- •New Zealand trailed 12-4 before coming back to win 18-12 against Fiji
- •Fiji scored two tries in the first half, leading at halftime
- •New Zealand's next match is against France in Christchurch
- •Fiji plays Papua New Guinea next in the tournament
- 6:24 AMYahoo Sports — New Zealand avoid massive World Cup shock against Fiji
"New Zealand women are given a World Cup "wake-up call" after they are forced to come from behind to beat debutants Fiji in their opening game.
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