Rugby League World Cup opens with thrilling matches and standout performances
Zero Tackle NRL • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 19, 2026, 4:54 AM
Last updated Oct 19, 2026
The Rugby League World Cup commenced on Thursday, featuring exciting matchups including Australia against New Zealand, Samoa's dominant win, and Tonga's significant victory over England. Despite Australia's slow start, standout performances emerged, particularly from Reece Walsh. Upcoming fixtures feature high-stakes games, with England needing favorable results to advance. The crowd anticipation builds for Tonga vs Samoa, expected to draw a large audience.
- •Australia plays New Zealand, with the Kangaroos struggling early.
- •Samoa and Tonga achieve significant wins over their opponents.
- •Reece Walsh shines despite mixed reviews on performance.
- •Upcoming matches feature key implications for England's qualification.
- •Anticipation grows for Tonga vs Samoa, expected to attract large crowds.
- 4:54 AMZero Tackle NRL — An apology to Reece Walsh, the unfair draw and pre-match goosebumps: 20 thoughts from Rugby League World Cup, Week 1
"Reece Walsh deserves an apology, but the tournament itself doesn't.
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