Kiwi Ferns Secure Seventh Consecutive Women's Rugby League World Cup Final Spot
Stacey Waaka scores a hat-trick in a dominant 32-0 victory over Fetu Samoa.
1Seventh Consecutive Final Appearance
The New Zealand Kiwi Ferns have secured their place in the women's Rugby League World Cup final after a 32-0 victory over Fetu Samoa. This achievement marks the seventh consecutive time the team has reached the tournament's decider, maintaining their perfect record since the inaugural competition was first held in 2000.
2Stacey Waaka's Dominant Performance
Cross-code superstar Stacey Waaka led the charge by scoring three tries during the semifinal match. Her hat-trick performance brings her tournament tally to six tries. Waaka, who holds two Olympic gold medals in rugby 7s and two Rugby Union World Cup titles, continues to be a pivotal figure for New Zealand.
3Match Dynamics at Hunter Stadium
The semifinal took place at Hunter Stadium in Newcastle on November 7, 2026. Despite a competitive first half, New Zealand pulled away as the match progressed. Fetu Samoa, appearing in their maiden semifinal, struggled with execution and handling errors, which ultimately allowed the Kiwi Ferns to capitalize and control the game.
4Early Errors Define the Start
Fetu Samoa faced a difficult beginning when hooker Mary-Jane Taito threw a forward pass in the opening set. New Zealand immediately punished this mistake, with winger Mackenzie Wiki crossing the line in the second minute. This early lead set the tone for the match, placing significant pressure on the Samoan defensive line.
5Samoa's Missed Scoring Opportunities
Fetu Samoa's best chance to score occurred midway through the first half when they secured four consecutive sets at the New Zealand goal-line. However, the first-time semifinalists failed to convert these opportunities into points. Their inability to break through the Kiwi Ferns' defense proved costly as the match moved toward halftime.
6Handling Errors and Match Tension
The high stakes of the semifinal were reflected in the error count for both sides. The Kiwi Ferns committed nine handling errors, while Fetu Samoa recorded seven. These statistics highlight the intense physical pressure and the challenging conditions at the stadium, where wind and rain impacted the overall flow of play.
7Second Half Scoring Surge
New Zealand extended their lead in the 44th minute when Waaka caught a kick in the in-goal area for her second try. The team then iced the match with a three-try burst in just six minutes, featuring scores from Mele Hufanga, Kaiyah Atai, and Waaka, effectively ending any hope of a comeback.
8Finalizing the Dominant Victory
Captain Raecene McGregor capped off the 32-0 win by scoring under the posts three minutes before the final whistle. This late try underscored the team's ability to maintain intensity until the end. The victory solidified New Zealand's status as a powerhouse in the sport, having dismantled the tired Samoan defensive line.
9Waaka Reflects on Team Chemistry
Post-match, Stacey Waaka praised the team's resilience, noting that the victory required playing hard until the final whistle. She expressed enjoyment in playing alongside the younger members of the squad, highlighting the mutual learning experience. Waaka remains focused on the upcoming final, regardless of which opponent they will face next.
10Tournament Context and Path Forward
New Zealand now awaits the result of the second semifinal between Australia and Fiji, scheduled for Sunday in Sydney. The winner of that match will face the Kiwi Ferns in the final. This tournament continues to showcase the evolving landscape of women's international rugby league and the depth of talent.
11Historical Significance of the Final
Reaching seven consecutive finals is a testament to New Zealand's consistency in the women's game. Since the inaugural tournament in 2000, the Kiwi Ferns have been a constant presence in the championship match. This historical dominance reflects the nation's deep-rooted rugby culture and the high standard of their professional development.
12Looking Toward the Championship
As the tournament nears its conclusion, the focus shifts to the final showdown. The Kiwi Ferns have demonstrated both tactical discipline and individual brilliance throughout the competition. Whether they face Australia or Fiji, the final promises to be a culmination of the high-intensity play observed throughout the 2026 World Cup.