A stunned Brisbane crowd watched Fiji enjoy territorial advantage and take a 16-12 lead, before a crucial 60-second momentum switch propelled Australia into the Rugby League World Cup semi-finals. According to BBC Sport, Kevin Walters' side edged a pulsating 36-22 victory despite being outmuscled in the pack during a challenging encounter.

Having previously lost their last five meetings against Australia by an aggregate score of 246-16, Fiji came close to extending an advantage when Solomone Saukuru raced in to seemingly put them 20-12 ahead. However, BBC Sport reported that when that try was ruled out for obstruction, Australia immediately capitalised at the other end as Tom Trbojevic scored to bring the teams level.

Trbojevic crossed twice more to complete his hat-trick, while Jacob Preston added a further try for Australia after Semi Valemei completed a hat-trick for Fiji. Brisbane Broncos centre Kotoni Staggs opened the scoring on his home ground, and Sam Walker capped his debut with a try and 12 points with the boot, as noted by BBC Sport.

Background

According to BBC Sport, the fixture formed part of the Rugby League World Cup group stage matches. Australia headed into the last four despite delivering two unconvincing performances in victories over New Zealand and Fiji. Meanwhile, New Zealand bounced back from an opening 24-22 defeat by Australia with an 82-16 victory over the Cook Islands in Christchurch, where Jamayne Isaako scored a record 38 points for the Kiwis under coach Stacey Jones, surpassing Tasesa Lavea's 2000 record.

Why it matters

International sports tournaments capture global attention, showcasing elite athletic competition, team resilience under pressure, and the rigorous demands of multi-nation championships. For sports enthusiasts following international rugby league developments, these matches highlight the shifting competitive dynamics between traditional powerhouse nations and formidable regional challengers.

What's next

According to BBC Sport, New Zealand will take on Fiji in a make-or-break final pool game on Saturday, 31 October, at 04:30 GMT.