Pacific Islanders Pip Belgium in Nail-Biting Finale
In a heart-stopping climax to the Rugby World Cup qualification process, Samoa booked their ticket to the 2027 tournament in Australia after a gripping 13-13 draw against a valiant Belgium side in Dubai. The Pacific Islanders secured their passage by the narrowest of margins, finishing just one point ahead of their European rivals in the final standings of the four-team competition.
A Tense Battle Decided by the Finest Margins
The decisive match, played on Tuesday 18 November 2025, saw Samoa, the pre-match favourites, struggle to find their rhythm in the first half. Belgium capitalised on this, building a 6-3 lead by half-time and putting Samoa's World Cup dreams in serious jeopardy. The second half, however, saw a resurgence from the men in blue.
The crucial moment came when Abraham Papali'i crossed the line for Samoa's only try of the match. The conversion, along with two further penalties, was expertly slotted by Jacob Umaga, whose boot proved instrumental in the final outcome. Despite the stalemate on the scoreboard, it was the single, critical bonus point earned that ultimately sent Samoa through.
Pride and Agony in Dubai
Speaking after the final whistle, Samoa's captain, Theo McFarland, expressed immense pride in his team's monumental effort. He acknowledged the fierce challenge posed by Belgium, whose own World Cup ambitions were agonisingly cut short. McFarland stated his team had to dig incredibly deep to secure their place on the global stage.
This result means Samoa will compete at the 2027 World Cup in Australia, joining the sport's elite nations. For Belgium, the draw represents a crushing near-miss, a testament to how fine the line can be between triumph and despair in international rugby.
