Australia and New Zealand in the Rugby League World Cup final

The final will be played between Australia and New Zealand, in a World Cup where Tonga and Samoa were seen as championship contenders. According to Brian Carney, both teams deserved to reach the final, and it is very hard to separate them.

Australia started the tournament with a very striking win. They found a way through against Fiji despite being in a difficult position. Carney stressed that Australia managed to win even at moments when they had been behind for roughly half a century.

In New Zealand, Kalyn Ponga's return to the squad stands out as a major plus. Even after breaking his arm, he made fearless tackles in defence and drew attention with important saves. Carney said he also gives New Zealand a good chance.

In the women's final, Carney sees the Australian Jillaroos as clear favourites. The team's ability to beat its opponents comfortably, and at times keep them scoreless, shows that it is much harder for New Zealand and Samoa to catch them than it is on the men's side.