New Zealand sweep aside Samoa to reach Women’s World Cup final

New Zealand’s women’s rugby league team secured their place in the Women’s World Cup final, overcoming Samoa with a commanding 32-0 victory. This win marks the Ferns' seventh consecutive appearance in the final, although their past three finals have been marred by heartbreaking losses to Australia. The primary obstacle for New Zealand's fourth consecutive championship appears to be Fiji, who face the Kiwi side in the other semi-final.

New Zealand displayed their defensive prowess and clinical attacking play throughout the match against Samoa, who struggled to capitalize on field position and committed several handling errors. Key players like Stacey Waaka and Raecene McGregor showcased their talents, with Waaka scoring a hat-trick and McGregor contributing a crucial try.

Samoa's standout performers included Fanua Rimoni and teenage winger Anastasia Leatupue, but their inability to effectively utilize key players, particularly the 18-year-old Leatupue, proved costly. The match took place under challenging conditions at Newcastle's McDonald Jones Stadium, but New Zealand's disciplined and efficient performance ultimately prevailed, setting the stage for their fourth Women’s World Cup title.