For the fans who became heroes, Samoa vs Tonga is bigger than a grand final
Ahead of the latest instalment of their timeless rivalry, a new generation of Samoan and Tongan stars have transformed from fans into the new heroes of their nation.
Four young rugby league stars - Samoa's Francis Manuleleua, Tonga's Sua Fa'aloalo, and New Zealand's Leka Halasima - are preparing for a special encounter in Sunday's Rugby League World Cup match. Their connection to the timeless rivalry between their nations dates back to 2017 when Manuleleua first witnessed Samoa's heroic 20-18 victory over Tonga.
For Fa'aloalo, the passion runs deep from his childhood village of Si'umu in Samoa, while Halasima feels the same bond from his Tongan roots in Tofoa. As they step onto the field, they embody the spirit of two ancient cultures united by centuries of history, love, and faith. The rivalry is more than a game - it's a grand occasion that showcases the Pasifika diaspora's shared experience and pride.
Whether in the islands or around the world, the spirit of Tonga and Samoa thrives when they face off on the rugby league field. Manuleleua, Fa'aloalo, and Halasima are eager to honor this legacy and pass it on to future generations of rugby league heroes.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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