Australia defeat New Zealand to claim fourth successive Rugby League World Cup title

Australia secured their fourth consecutive Men's Rugby League World Cup title with a dominant 32-12 victory over New Zealand in the final in Brisbane. Liam Martin opened the scoring for Australia with a try after just 84 seconds following an early error by Jamayne Isaako from the kick-off. Casey McLean scored a converted try to briefly draw New Zealand level, but Australia capitalized on further defensive mistakes to build a commanding 24-6 lead by half-time.

Second Half And Tries

Jack Bostock scored two tries for Australia, continuing his impressive tournament after returning from knee reconstruction surgery. Bradman Best and Tom Trbojevic also crossed the line in the second half, with Cameron Munster kicking four goals. Isaiah Papali'i scored New Zealand's second try after the break, but it proved only a consolation as the defending champions sealed their record-extending 13th World Cup success in front of a sell-out crowd of 52,500 people.

Context

Australia's victory marks their 23rd successive win in World Cup matches since they were defeated by New Zealand in the 2008 final at the same venue in Brisbane. The Rugby League World Cup brings together top international teams to compete for the sport's most prestigious trophy in a tournament format.