Fetū Samoa have named their squad for the Rugby League World Cup 2026 semi-final against the Kiwi Ferns, marking another milestone in a journey 18 years in the making.
For the first time in their history, Fetū Samoa have reached the semi-finals of the Women’s Rugby League World Cup, earning their place among the tournament’s final four following an impressive campaign that has captured the attention of Samoan supporters around the world.
The team secured its place in the knockout stage with a commanding 24–6 victory over England at WIN Stadium in Wollongong on October 30. The result marked a historic achievement for a side that last appeared at the World Cup in 2008, making this campaign a significant moment for women’s rugby league in Samoa.
The team’s announcement carried a message that reflects the significance of the occasion:
“18 years in the making. A legacy still being written.”
The message also paid tribute to the generations of women who have contributed to the journey, recognising those who came before the current squad, those standing alongside them today and the young girls who see themselves in the team’s story.
For Fetū Samoa, this semi-final represents an opportunity to honour that legacy while continuing to build a future for women’s rugby league in Samoa.
The squad will now prepare for one of its biggest challenges yet, facing New Zealand’s Kiwi Ferns at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on Saturday, November 7.
New Zealand enter the contest following a 40–12 victory over Papua New Guinea, setting up a meeting between two sides competing for a place in the World Cup final.
Fetū Samoa will draw on the momentum of their performances throughout the tournament as they prepare to face one of the leading teams in the international women’s game.
Their progress has also been driven by a blend of emerging talent and experienced leadership. Co-captains Annetta Nu’uausala and Evania Isa’ako have helped guide the squad through its campaign, while the performances of younger players have highlighted the depth of talent coming through Samoan women’s rugby league.
The victory over England was another defining moment, with 18-year-old Freedom Crichton Ropati scoring a hat-trick on her World Cup debut. Her performance reflected the impact of a younger generation embracing the opportunity to represent Samoa on the international stage. Now, with a semi-final place secured, Fetū Samoa have the opportunity to take another step forward in their World Cup journey. As the team prepares to take the field in Newcastle, the significance of the occasion extends beyond the result. It represents the work of those who helped establish the pathway, the players carrying the jersey today and the next generation who will look to follow in their footsteps.
Eighteen years in the making, the journey continues.
Match Details
- Match: Fetū Samoa v New Zealand (Kiwi Ferns)
- Competition: Rugby League World Cup 2026 Women’s Semi-Final
- Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
- Venue: McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle, Australia
- Kick-off: 5:45pm AEDT National Rugby League
