New Zealand down spirited Tonga to reach Rugby League World Cup final
New Zealand defeated Tonga 34-10 in a Rugby League World Cup semi-final match. The Kiwis overcame a halftime deficit to secure their spot in the final against either Australia or Samoa.
Why it matters
This victory marks a significant return to form for New Zealand, who have not reached a World Cup final since 2013, highlighting the evolving competitive landscape of international rugby league.
Dane Gagai and Jamayne Isaako are pumped up after New Zealand draw level before the break. Photograph: Dan Himbrechts/AAP Dane Gagai and Jamayne Isaako are pumped up after New Zealand draw level before the break. Photograph: Dan Himbrechts/AAP Rugby League World Cup New Zealand down spirited Tonga to reach Rugby League World Cup final New Zealand 34-10 Tonga
Kiwis come from behind and will face Australia or Samoa
Prefer the Guardian on Google What had been billed as one of the most intriguing Rugby League World Cup semi-finals in history was, in the end, a brutal exposé of the standards other nations must rise to in order to match Australia and New Zealand.
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