Rugby League World Cup delivers major upsets and early tournament shocks

Tonga beat England 30–12 for its first-ever Rugby League World Cup victory over England, putting England’s semifinal route under pressure. In the women’s tournament, New Zealand recovered from an unprecedented World Cup halftime deficit to beat debutants Fiji 18–12; Fiji’s men also opened with a 40–12 win. England’s remaining group matches and New Zealand’s response against France are key next tests.