The second semi-final of the men’s Rugby League World Cup got off to an incredible start as Samoa performed the Siva Tau, with opponents Australia not taking a backwards step either.

One of the highlights of the World Cup so far has been the traditional war dances before each game, something that does not take place in State of Origin matches – often dubbed the pinnacle of the sport.

However, it’s undeniable that the likes of the Haka, Sipi Tau, and Siva Tau have elevated the atmosphere of this World Cup and this weekend’s semi-finals were no different.

On Saturday, Tonga and New Zealand faced off in an intense battle in the rain and wind of Newcastle but the tone was set from before a ball was kicked thanks to each team’s incredible war dance.

Whilst Sunday’s semi-final only saw one of the two teams complete a pre-match war dance, Samoa more than made up for it with how intense their Siva Tau was.

They advanced all the way to come head to head with Australia with Super League forward Jazz Tevaga among those who was nose-to-nose with his opponent, staring up at Australia’s tall outside back Jack Bostock.

Further down the line, Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, who previously represented Samoa, spent parts of the stare down physically butting heads with Samoan winger Brian To’o.

It’s fair to say that the Siva Tau and Australia’s reaction to it created an incredible atmosphere in the Allianz Stadium, with commentator Andrew Voss responded simply: “Bloody hell.”

That was likely the reaction of many with the tone well and truly set for the game – a repeat of the 2022 World Cup Final.

FACE TO FACE 😤

#RLWC26 https://t.co/DqnfdqUU1O

— Rugby League World Cup 2026 (@rugbyleaguewcup) November 8, 2026

Related Topics