Papua New Guinea and Samoa meet in a pivotal Rugby League World Cup 2026 pool match at Port Moresby on Saturday, October 24. For viewers wondering how to follow the Papua New Guinea vs Samoa live stream, the fixture is free-to-air in Australia and available via subscription in several other key markets. Kick-off is set for 2:25pm local time.
Samoa's Statement Win
Samoa arrive after a 78-4 demolition of France last weekend, a result that answered critics following an ordinary run of form since reaching the semi-finals four years ago. The Toa Samoa scored 14 tries in the rout, with Sualauvi Fa’alogo crossing four times in just his third appearance for the team. Ben Ioelu added two tries, while Stephen Crichton contributed a try and 11 goals. The margin leaves Samoa with a massive points difference and within touching distance of a semi-final place; a win over PNG would effectively secure it.
PNG's Opening Statement
Papua New Guinea opened their campaign with a 42-18 victory over Lebanon, scoring seven tries. The Kumuls, co-hosts of the tournament, have five NRL players in their squad and are coached by the experienced Jason Demetriou. Captain Rhyse Martin leads a side hoping to upset Samoa and claim a first-ever win over them.
Head-to-Head and Stakes
History is not on PNG’s side: Samoa have won all three previous meetings. Samoa are also ranked two places above PNG in the world rankings. But the Kumuls will draw on home support in Port Moresby as they attempt to buck the trend and keep their own semi-final ambitions alive.
Kick-Off Times Around the World
- Papua New Guinea: 2:25pm (local)
- Australia: 3:25pm AEDT
- United Kingdom: 5:25am BST
- United States (ET): 12:25am ET
How to Watch
In Australia, every RLWC match is free-to-air on the Seven Network and streaming service 7plus. A 7plus account requires a valid Australian postcode. In the US, Premier Sports carries all 18 men’s RLWC games, with a tournament pass priced at $25. In the UK, the match is on Premier Sports 2, available via Sky TV, Virgin Media, and Prime Video; subscriptions cost £18.99 monthly or £150 yearly. Canadian viewers can access Premier Sports for CA$29.99 per month, CA$79.99 for six months, or CA$139.99 yearly. In New Zealand, Sky Sport NZ shows the match on Sky Sport 2, with streaming via Sky Sport Now at NZ$29.99 per day or NZ$59.99 per month.
VPN Access for Travelers
Viewers outside their home country can use a VPN to access their usual streaming service. A VPN can restore access to geo-blocked platforms, and NordVPN is one option for doing so.
Key Players to Watch
Samoa’s attack is led by captain Jarome Luai, with Fa’alogo and Ioelu in try-scoring form and Crichton’s goal-kicking a reliable weapon. PNG captain Rhyse Martin will look to inspire the Kumuls in front of their home crowd. The match promises to be a compelling clash between Samoa’s recent momentum and PNG’s determination to make history.
