Fetū Samoa have made history.
In a defining moment for Samoan women’s rugby league, Fetū Samoa have secured their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup for the first time in the nation’s history, defeating England 24-6 at WIN Stadium in Wollongong on Friday. With a place in the final four on the line, Samoa delivered when it mattered most, producing a commanding performance against an England side that entered the contest with its own World Cup ambitions on the line.
And at the heart of it all was Freedom Crichton-Ropati.
The Samoan winger produced a remarkable first-half performance, crossing for three tries to complete a hat-trick and give Fetū Samoa a crucial 12-0 advantage heading into the break. Her finishing provided the foundation for a historic night, putting England under immediate pressure and giving Samoa control of a contest that carried enormous significance for both nations. England needed a response after the interval, but Samoa continued to find ways forward. Mercedez Taulelei-Siala crossed early in the second half to extend the lead to 16-0, further strengthening Samoa’s position in a must-win encounter. England eventually found its way onto the scoreboard through Evie Cousins, bringing the margin back to 16-6. But Fetū Samoa remained composed, refusing to allow England an opportunity to turn the momentum.
Pauline Piliae-Rasabale added a penalty goal before Fanua Rimoni crossed late in the contest, sealing a 24-6 victory and sending Samoa into uncharted territory. The final whistle confirmed what this group had set out to achieve. Fetū Samoa are World Cup semi-finalists for the first time. The significance of the achievement stretches well beyond Friday’s result. Samoa’s return to the Women’s Rugby League World Cup in 2026 came after an 18-year absence from the tournament, having last competed in 2008. Their journey back to the international stage has now culminated in a place among the final four nations competing for the world title. It is a landmark achievement for Samoan women’s rugby league and a moment that will be remembered by the players, their families, supporters and the wider Samoan community.
For a nation whose identity is deeply connected to its people, culture and collective pride, this team has given Samoans everywhere another reason to stand together. They arrived at this World Cup carrying the hopes of a nation. They leave the group stage having made history. From their return to the world stage to their commanding performances throughout the tournament, Fetū Samoa have shown the quality, resilience and belief required to compete among the world’s best. Now, a new challenge awaits. The semi-finals are next, and Samoa have earned their place there on merit. Whatever comes next, this group has already secured its place in the history of Samoan sport. For the first time, Fetū Samoa are among the final four at the Women’s Rugby League World Cup.
History has been made. And the journey is far from over. Manuia, Fetū Samoa.
