Samoa vs Belgium to decide final 2027 Rugby World Cup qualifying place

Rugby News
Friday, 14 November 2025 at 11:47
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Samoa and Belgium will clash next Tuesday, 18 November, in a winner-takes-all showdown for the final place at Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia. Both sides arrive in Dubai undefeated in the Final Qualification Tournament, each boasting back-to-back wins on match day two of the World Cup Repechage.
Belgium’s path to the decider has been dramatic. The Black Devils survived a tense 30-27 win over Brazil despite playing over half an hour with just 14 men. Replacement prop Maxime Jadot scored the decisive try in the dying minutes, completing a remarkable comeback. Belgium had earlier raced into a 14-0 lead through tries from Charlesty Berguet and captain Jean-Maurice Decubber, with fly-half Matias Remue converting both.
Brazil fought back through their powerful front row and clever play, briefly taking the lead after Berguet was red-carded and lock Toon Deceuninck served a yellow. However, Belgium’s resilience shone through, with Remue and Jadot ensuring victory.
In the later match, Samoa looked far more comfortable, defeating Namibia 26-8. The Samoans dominated from the start, with tries from Jonathan Taumateine, Va'afauese Apelu Maliko, and Latrell Ah-Kiong, complemented by Jacob Umaga’s conversions. Namibia showed resilience in the second half, with a late try by Jay-Cee Nell narrowing the margin, but Samoa’s defensive intelligence and structured play kept them in control
Both teams now have five days to recover and prepare for what will be one of the most important matches in their histories. The winner will secure the 24th and final spot at RWC 2027, with Samoa seeking to continue their strong form and Belgium aiming to complete a fairy-tale run.

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