Dominant Australia defeat New Zealand in Men’s World Cup final

Australia beat New Zealand 32-12 to win the men’s Rugby League World Cup, extending their record to 13 titles and claiming a fourth consecutive championship. After an unconvincing start to the tournament, the Kangaroos delivered a commanding performance in the final, underlining their status as the leading team in international rugby league.

Australia led 24-6 at half-time after scoring four first-half tries, including two from Liam Martin, who opened the scoring after 84 seconds. Tom Trbojevic and Jack Bostock added second-half tries, with Bostock also scoring twice; New Zealand replied through Casey McLean and Isaiah Papali’i. The final was played before a sell-out crowd of 52,500, and Australia’s win made it 23 consecutive victories in World Cup matches.