As the Pacific Cup and Bowl reach their climax, rugby league fans are in for an action-packed weekend at CommBank Stadium, where two high-stakes clashes will take place. First, the New Zealand Kiwis face the Papua New Guinea Kumuls in a crucial relegation match, with the Kiwis determined to avoid an embarrassing drop after their championship-winning campaign last year. Then, the Australia Kangaroos and Tonga XIII will battle for the prestigious Pacific Cup title, with Australia seeking redemption and Tonga on the verge of making history. Both matchups promise intense competition, passionate performances, and a fierce display of Pacific pride.
New Zealand Kiwis v Papua New Guinea Kumuls:
After last year’s triumphant Pacific Cup win over Australia, the Kiwis now face a tough battle to avoid relegation as they take on the determined Kumuls at CommBank Stadium. Losses to the Kangaroos and Tonga have placed New Zealand in the relegation zone, prompting veteran Shaun Johnson to postpone his retirement to help defend their standing in the tournament. To stave off the risk of relegation, Johnson must lead decisively, especially as the Kumuls, motivated by a spot in next year’s Cup, bring in-form players like Nene Macdonald and Lachlan Lam. Historically, the Kiwis lead 17-1 in their matchups, with the Kumuls' lone win in 1986, and being motivated by last week’s loss, I think the New Zealand forward pack will be eager to redeem themselves. I’m tipping the Kiwi’s by 18 points.
Australia Kangaroos v Tonga XIII:
The 2024 season concludes with a thrilling Pacific Cup final between the Kangaroos and Tonga at CommBank Stadium. Australia seeks redemption after last year’s 30-0 loss to New Zealand, while Tonga arrives full of confidence after edging the Kiwis 25-24, thanks to a combined 422 run meters from Addin Fonua-Blake and Jason Taumalolo and clutch play from Isaiya Katoa. Tonga now stands on the brink of history, aiming to be the first Pacific nation to win a major tournament, buoyed by passionate fan support. Having won one of their three prior meetings, Tonga hopes to replicate their 2019 victory, while Australia looks to counter Tonga’s intensity and dominate the closing stages. While the Australian back line is arguably the best in the world, their forward pack is in danger of being outmuscled by the superior size of the Tongan pack. For that reason, I’m tipping a nail biter, and Tonga to walk away victorious by 4 points.
As the weekend draws to a close, fans will witness the resilience, pride, and determination that define rugby league in the Pacific. Whether it's the Kiwis fighting to maintain their status or the Kangaroos and Tonga battling for glory, each team has its eyes set on proving something powerful on the field. With reputations on the line, history within reach, and the roar of loyal supporters driving them forward, these final matchups will leave lasting impressions. The Pacific Cup 2024 is sure to end on a high note, celebrating the spirit and skill of Pacific rugby league. So gear up, and show your national colours with pride as stock is still available for international rugby league merchandise at Jersey’s Megastore. NRL stock is due in any week now too, so why not ask our friendly team when you can expect to see your club’s latest gear hitting the shelves! Jersey’s Megastore, for all things footy!
