Tonga win epic over Samoa, Kangaroos learn World Cup semi-final opponent

The equation for tonight’s match is simple: the winner will take on New Zealand next Saturday while the loser will set up a date against Australia at Allianz Stadium next Sunday.

Earlier, Tonga beat England 30-12, before beating Lebanon 36-0.

Samoa, meanwhile, hammered France 78-4 and then smashed PNG 64-6.

The bookies have Tonga has slim $1.74 favourites.

TEAMS

Tonga team: 1. Lehi Hopoate 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Tolutau Koula 4. Robert Toia 5. Jojo Fifita 6. Tuimoala Lolohea 7. Isaiya Katoa 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Salesi Foketi 10. Jason Taumalolo (c) 11. Haumole Olakau’atu 12. Siua Wong 13. Tyson Frizell 14. Soni Luke 15. Stefano Utoikamanu 16. Demitric Vaimauga 17. Taniela Paseka 18. Leka Halasima 19. Latu Fainu

Samoa team: 1. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow 2. Brian To’o 3. Izack Tago 4. Stephen Crichton 5. Sualauvi Faalogo 6. Chanel Harris-Tavita 7. Jarome Luai (c) 8. Francis Molo 9. Benaiah Ioelu 10. Junior Paulo (c) 11. Connelly Lemuelu 12. Jermaine McEwen 13. Francis Manuleleua 14. Jazz Tevaga 15. Spencer Leniu 16. Shawn Blore 17. Ata Mariota 18. Clayton Faulalo 19. Ronald Volkman

Hello and welcome to live coverage of the Rugby League World Cup.

I’m Christy Doran.

It’s a fine evening here in Parramatta and we’ve got an exciting match-up this evening: Samoa vs Tonga.

It also marks the final match of the group stage before next week’s semi finals.