Defending champions Australia powered into their 13th Rugby League World Cup final with a commanding 44-12 victory over Samoa in Sydney, inspired by a hat-trick from fullback Reece Walsh.
After struggling to impress during the group stages, the Kangaroos rediscovered their attacking form, scoring eight tries and establishing a decisive 26-2 halftime advantage. Samoa, backed by a passionate contingent among the 41,529 spectators, fought back with second-half tries from Stephen Crichton and Izack Tago, but Australia maintained control throughout.
Walsh’s three tries highlighted an impressive team performance, with Jack Bostock completing the scoring late in the match. The 12-time world champions will now face New Zealand in next Sunday’s final in Brisbane, after the Kiwis secured their place with a 34-10 semifinal victory over Tonga.
