The Men’s Rugby League World Cup 2026 semi-finals promise a thrilling weekend, with New Zealand facing Tonga and Australia taking on Samoa in the supplied fixture lineup. Scheduled for November 7 and 8, the two matches will take place in Newcastle and Sydney, with a place in the World Cup final at stake.
For supporters planning their weekend, both games kick off at 8:05pm local time. Here is the semi-final schedule, venue information and a look at what could decide these knockout encounters.
Men’s Rugby League World Cup Semi-Final Schedule
The opening semi-final features New Zealand against Tonga on Saturday, November 7, at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle. Kick-off is scheduled for 8:05pm AEDT.
Australia meet Samoa in the second semi-final on Sunday, November 8, at Allianz Stadium in Sydney. That match also starts at 8:05pm AEDT.
With the fixtures spread across consecutive evenings, fans can follow both contests as the tournament reaches its decisive stage. Each match offers the same reward: victory means advancing to the final, while defeat ends the campaign.
| Date | Match | Kick-off (AEDT) | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saturday, 7 November 2026 | New Zealand vs Tonga | 8:05 pm | McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle |
| Sunday, 8 November 2026 | Australia vs Samoa | 8:05 pm | Allianz Stadium, Sydney |
New Zealand vs Tonga: Newcastle Hosts Opening Semi-Final
New Zealand’s meeting with Tonga presents an intriguing contest between two teams with passionate support. McDonald Jones Stadium provides the setting for a match in which handling pressure could be just as important as creating attacking opportunities.
For New Zealand, controlling possession and finishing sets effectively could help establish the rhythm of the game. Accurate kicking and disciplined defence would give the Kiwis a platform to build pressure.
Tonga’s opportunity could come through strong carries, quick attacking movement and sustained intensity. If they can generate momentum through the middle, space may open for their outside runners.
The opening exchanges should offer clues about which side can dictate territory. In a knockout fixture, avoidable penalties and handling errors can quickly shift the balance.
Australia vs Samoa: Sydney Stages Second Semi-Final
Australia and Samoa take centre stage at Allianz Stadium the following evening. The Sydney fixture gives supporters another opportunity to watch international rugby league with a final berth on the line.
Australia will look to turn possession into sustained pressure. Their ability to execute attacking plays while limiting mistakes could prove central to their chances.
For Samoa, maintaining concentration throughout the contest will be essential. Defensive organisation, effective kick returns and making the most of scoring opportunities could keep them firmly in contention.
Individual moments may capture attention, but the result could depend on collective discipline. Completing sets, defending repeat attacks and responding calmly after conceding points are likely to matter throughout.
What Fans Need to Know
Both semi-finals begin at 8:05pm AEDT, the local time in Newcastle and Sydney during November. Overseas viewers should check the corresponding start time in their location.
Supporters attending either venue should review official ticket information, entry arrangements and transport updates before travelling.
With New Zealand, Tonga, Australia and Samoa in the supplied lineup, the Men’s Rugby League World Cup semi-finals offer two compelling contests and a weekend that will determine who advances to the title decider.