Fetu Samoa have named their squad for Round 2 of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, with captain Evania Isa’ako set to lead the side against Wales at CommBank Stadium in Sydney on Friday, October 23. After opening their campaign against the Australian Jillaroos, Fetu Samoa return to the field with a reshaped starting lineup as they look to build momentum in the tournament and continue representing Samoa on the world stage.
Isa’ako moves into the No. 6 jersey at five-eighth, while Pauline Piliae-Rasabale retains the halfback role. In the forward pack, Leilani Wilson moves into the second row, with Tavarna Papalii named at lock. Tyra Ekepati also earns a starting spot in the centres, joining Monica Tagoai in the middle of the backline. The changes come following an injury to Sarina Masaga, who suffered a tournament-ending Achilles injury in the opening round. Taliah Fuimaono is also absent from the Round 2 team list. Fetu Samoa will face a Wales side that has also made adjustments to its lineup ahead of the encounter. The Welsh team features captain Bethan Dainton at lock, with Tayla Preston named at halfback and Amberley Ruck at five-eighth. With both sides looking to make their mark in the competition, Friday’s contest presents an important opportunity for Fetu Samoa to respond, build combinations and showcase the strength of Samoan women’s rugby league.
For Fetu Samoa, the occasion carries significance beyond the result. The team represents the pride, identity and determination of Samoa, carrying the hopes of its supporters and inspiring the next generation of Pasifika women in rugby league. The squad will look to bring that purpose into its next challenge as the Rugby League World Cup continues.
Fetu Samoa Round 2 team list
Starting XIII
- Destiny Mino-Sinapati
- Mercedez Taulelei-Siala
- Monica Tagoai
- Tyra Ekepati
- Freedom Crichton Ropati
- Evania Isa’ako (c)
- Pauline Piliae-Rasabale
- Annetta Nu’uausala
- Mary-Jane Taito
- Laikha Clarke
- Leilani Wilson
- Ivana Lolesio
- Tavarna Papalii
Interchange
- Jetaya Faifua
- Fanua Rimoni
- Amber Hall
- Christabelle Onesemo-Tuilaepa
Replacement and reserves
- Jaydika Tafua (replacement)
- Christian Pio (reserve)
- Jasmine Fogavini (reserve)
- Evelyn Roberts (reserve)
Match details
- Fixture: Fetu Samoa vs Wales
- Competition: RLWC26, Round 2
- Date: Friday, October 23, 2026
- Kick-off: 5:45 p.m. AEDT
- Venue: CommBank Stadium, Sydney
