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England Suffer Early Blow to Rugby League World Cup Hopes with Loss to Tonga
Isaiya Katoa scored 14 points as Tonga absorbed early pressure and exposed England’s weaknesses after the break.
- Tonga beat England 30-12 in Perth on Oct. 17, 2026, during the opening match of the Rugby League World Cup, delivering a stunning upset against the third-ranked team.
- England piled on pressure during a high-octane first half but failed to find a way through Tonga's defense, allowing Stefano Utoikamanu to score after Tonga absorbed half an hour of pressure.
- Dolphins half-back Isaiya Katoa masterminded the victory with crucial kicks and playmaking, setting up tries for Tolutau Koula and Haumole Olakau as Tonga cruised through the final minutes.
- Coach Brian McDermott must rebuild his shattered side for upcoming group games against Papua New Guinea and France, with this defeat jeopardizing England's semifinal prospects immediately.
- With only six teams competing and two advancing to the semifinals, England realistically needs Tonga to beat Samoa in a fortnight to maintain any chance of progression.
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England suffer early blow to Rugby League World Cup hopes with loss to Tonga
Brian McDermott’s men were undone by the brilliance of Dolphins half-back Isaiya Katoa.
·Mold, United Kingdom
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources15
Leaning Left6Leaning Right1Center5Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Left
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources lean Left
50% Left
L 50%
C 42%
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