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England eliminated from Rugby League World Cup after 34-12 loss

By Drooid · Oct 30, 2026 · How we work

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Summary

England men’s rugby league team lost 34-12 to Papua New Guinea, jeopardizing World Cup qualification.
England needed a 70-point win after a 30-12 loss to Tonga to overtake Samoa.
Captain George Williams said the team’s wheels fell off, leaving qualification to Tonga.
England women lost to Samoa after Rimoni’s 66th-minute try secured Samoa’s semi-final spot.
Evie Cousins scored England’s only try and all conversions were missed.

Summary

England suffered its first ever group-stage elimination in Rugby League World Cup history.
Coaches and pundits called for a sweeping overhaul of UK rugby league structures after the dual men’s and women’s exits.
Analysts highlighted the investment gap, noting NRLW’s full professionalism versus England’s largely amateur women’s program.
England’s governing body will face an inquest before the 2030 World Cup as systemic issues are examined.

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England Lose Qualification

England men’s rugby league team lost 34-12 to Papua New Guinea, jeopardizing World Cup qualification.
England needed a 70-point win after a 30-12 loss to Tonga to overtake Samoa.
Captain George Williams said the team’s wheels fell off, leaving qualification to Tonga.
England women lost to Samoa after Rimoni’s 66th-minute try secured Samoa’s semi-final spot.
Evie Cousins scored England’s only try and all conversions were missed.

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