Samoa took to the streets after Toa Samoa’s second victory

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 26 October 2026 – Despite the ban on car parades in support of the Toa Samoa, it did not stop people from taking the celebration to the streets of Apia and around the country after Toa Samoa thrashed Papua New Guinea Kumuls 64-6 in the weekend.

The two big screens in-front of the Government building catered for the public and the scene after the game was described by some as “unbelievable and insane” and it took police sometimes to disburse the crowd.

People of all ages gathered in-front of the big screen to witness the game and leading the cheering crowd was Prime Minister Laaulialemalitoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt and several Cabinet ministers who sat amongst the public cheering Toa Samoa on.

The 64-6 win against the Kumuls was Toa Samoas second victory in their campaign at the Rugby League World Cup 2026.

Prime Minister Laaulialemalitoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt and Cabinet ministers who sat amongst the public watching the match on LED screens and cheering Toa Samoa on.

The celebration was not as chaotic as the celebration two weeks before when Toa Samoa defeated France by 78-6 where police had to close down the main Beach Road.

Around the country fans and supporters came up with various and creative ways to express their support.

In Samata on the western side of Savaii, car parades were outpointed by a warrior on horseback decorated in the team colours and hoisting high a Toa Samoa Flag. Even a crippled child on wheelchair is seen flying a Samoan flag high forcing himself to stand up without the help of his chair.

Elsewhere, a fan posted the video of a rooster with a Samoan flag tied to its wing and flagging it as it runs away from people.

Even a child on a wheelchair is seen waving a Samoan flag and left the support of his chair as he cheered the Toa Samoa on.

Toa Samoa dominate the Kumuls
Toa Samoa delivered a powerful second-half performance to secure their second World Cup win, scoring 13 tries to PNG’s one.

The match was closely fought early, with Samoa leading 14–6 at half-time.

However, the match turned to a one-sided affair as Toa Samoa took control of the second half using quick ball movement and strong attacking runs to overwhelm the home team.

The try scorers were Sualauvi Fa’alogo, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Shawn Blore who scored two tries each.

Dangerman Sualauvi Faalogo on the way to score two of his tries against PNG Kumuls.

Others that contributed a try each were Spencer Leniu, Stephen Crichton, Francis Manuleleua, Brian To’o, Ronald Volkman, Izack Tago and Ata Mariota.

Volkman kicked three conversions, while Chanel Harris-Tavita added two and Crichton one.

PNG’s only try came from Bailey Biondi-Odo, with captain Rhyse Martin adding the conversion.

Head coach Ben Gardiner praised his players’ second-half effort, saying the team moved the ball well and put pressure on PNG’s defence.

Co-captain Junior Paulo also thanked local supporters in Papua New Guinea for welcoming the Samoan team and celebrating the game with them.

PNG coach Jason Demetriou acknowledged that his side struggled to maintain possession after half-time, allowing Samoa to take control.

League fans watching Toa Samoa vs PNG Kumuls on the Post Office LED screen.

Samoa and PNG celebrate Pacific unity
Despite PNG’s defeat, local supporters also showed their support for Toa Samoa during the team’s visit to Port Moresby, reflecting the strong cultural ties and friendship shared across the Pacific.

PNG Prime Minister James Marape congratulated Fiji’s women’s team, the Bulikula, and Toa Samoa on their victories over the PNG Orchids and Kumuls.

He said the results demonstrated the growing strength of rugby league across the Pacific and the importance of sport in bringing neighbouring nations together.

“We compete fiercely on the field, but once the final whistle blows, we remain brothers and sisters of one Pacific family,” Prime Minister Marape said.

Francis Manuleleua in action against PGN Kumulus