Tonga vs Samoa live scores and blog, updates, teams, ins and outs, schedule, Pacific Cup, start time, where to watch, rugby league news

Tonga’s Pacific Championships campaign begins this afternoon at Suncorp Stadium when they take on Samoa, who are aiming to keep their tournament alive.

MATCH CENTER: Tonga vs Samoa, stats, scores, live blog

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Samoa lost to New Zealand last week and must win to remain in any chance of qualifying for the Pacific Cup final on November 9.

If Tonga win, they will face New Zealand in the final, whatever happens in next week’s match against the Kiwis.

Today’s clash is shaping up to be a beauty, with Tonga fielding probably the strongest team they have ever had in a Test match.

They were the real surprise of last year’s tournament, losing to Australia in the 2024 Pacific Cup by just six points.

In a blow, star central striker Jason Taumalolo was a late exit due to injury. He was replaced in the starting team by Felise Kaufusi.

TEAMS

Samoa: 1. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck 2. Brian To’o 3. Izack Tago 4. Deine Mariner 5. Murray Taulagi 6. Blaize Talagi 7. Jarome Luai 17. Francis Molo 15. Benaiah Joelu 10. Payne Haas 11. Jeremiah Nanai 12. Simi Sasagi 13. Junior Paulo 8. Josh Papali’i 9. Jazz Tevaga 14. Chanel Harris-Tavita 20. Terrell May 18 Men: 16. Ativalu Lisati

Late mail: Some late changes for Samoa. After missing last week’s match against New Zealand, Terrell May will come off the bench. Benaiah Ioelu will start at hooker, pushing Jazz Tevaga to the pin.

Tonga: 1. Lehi Hopoate 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Golden Trium 4. Robert Toia 5. Sione Katoa 6. Isaiah Young 7. Isaiya All 8. Addin Fonua-Bake 11. Siua Wong 14. Jon Luke 17. Moaki 18. Demitric Vaimauga 18th man: 19. Paul Alamoti

Late mail: Youngster Leka Halasima was promoted to the starting team with Siua Wong starting on the bench.