The long wait is finally over for international Rugby League with the 2026 World Cup beginning this Thursday as Australia and New Zealand lock horns. It will be an exhilarating start to the competition as the two favourites face off with one another. With the intensity high, both teams will want to assert themselves on this contest with the possibility that they will meet again in the Final. Before You Bet is here to take a comprehensive look at the action ahead with the aim of adding to your enjoyment by finding you a winner or two also.
Also, Before You Bet will be providing free previews and betting tips for certain games in the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, so make sure to head over to our Rugby Tips regularly to keep up to date with all our free content.
Australia vs New Zealand Prediction & Tips: 2026 Rugby League World Cup
Talent everywhere
Going into the first game of the competition where they are the favourites, the Australians have signalled their intentions by naming a strong side. Despite missing Cleary, they are stacked with a host of talent in numerous positions; from Mitchell, Trbojevic, Yeo, and Fa’asuamaleaui are just to name a few. The spine will lead this team around the park and with Moses’ kicking game and general directional play, we are likely to see the best from Munster, Walsh, and Grant. Even the players coming off the bench in Murray, Cotter, and Koloamatangi will offer strong impact to a bolstered pack which will start the match. The challenge for them is to ensure the timing of all players is at its peak; while it will likely improve as the tournament progresses, they will not want to lose this game and impact who they will face in the Semi Final. This ensures a high intensity for 80 minutes.
Out to prove a point
Often playing second fiddle to the Australians, the Kiwis will be out to make a statement in this game. Traditionally, they are a team that continues to improve the longer the tournament progresses. The naming of Ponga does counter this somewhat; he was arguably the form player of the Finals series and brings an edge to his team in attack. With the likes of Kini to also call upon from the bench, they could be an exciting team to watch. The responsibility of capitalising on this will come down to their halves; the loss of Crossland at hooker does hurt their chances. Hughes is of great quality but struggled at times this season while Nikorima performed well in a system which allowed him to play with freedom. Replicating those environments will be crucial to their success. The forwards are strong and robust but the quality and power doesn’t appear the same coming off the bench. There is also a clear indication that they will look to shut down the edge attacking options with McLean and Gagai partnering one another in the centres.
Stats that matter
- Australia have won 18 of the past 20 matches against New Zealand. In their history, Australia has won107 of the 144 tests played between the two nations.
- The overall win percentage is vast different too with the Aussies at 84% compared to the Kiwis 48%.
- 3 of the past 4 games between these two sides have had points totals of 32 or less, with Australia winning 2 of those games. When New Zealand were successful (2023 Pacific Nations Final), they won 30-nil in a shock upset.
A close contest is ahead
There is no doubt that both teams will be out to make a statement in this game as, if things go to plan, they will not meet again until the Finals. The Kiwis always have a point to prove and the changing of eligibility rules has allowed them to pick a robust team of players that improves the depth and strength of their squad. The fact that more players than their opponents featured heavily in the Finals series does increase the likelihood that they will be impact by fatigue. The challenge for the Australians is creating a game plan which plays to their strengths while exposing the weaknesses of their opponents. Some of the players on the field will have defensive lapses for the visitors and the home team will need to be sharp to capitalise. As mentioned above, their timing of their spine is crucial to achieving success. With a strong and capable back, complimented by dynamic outside backs, a bench to support the initial intensity, and halves with a strong kicking game, should be enough to see the Australians capture victory. It will be a highly competitive match though and it would be surprising to see the result go above 2 converted tries.
Australia 1-12
$3.00 (1 Unit)
Australia vs New Zealand Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Total points under 39.5 – see above for justification.
Leg 2 = Grant to score – always looking for an opportunity, Grant appears to have a unique ability to time his chances well. Be it close to the line or backing up in support, he will be heavily involved in this game, and you can get great value by including him in a SGM.
Leg 3 = Isaako to score – he was a threat on the wing for the Dolphins this year, tallying 23 tries. He will again be a threat on the edge for the Kiwis and with a strong ability on the ground and in the air, Isaako will be given plenty of opportunities to get himself into the game.
Australia vs New Zealand Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Thursday 15th October
Location: Allianz Stadium, Sydney
Time: 8:05pm
Odds: Australia $1.62 vs New Zealand $2.30
Line: -3.5
Points: 39.5
Where to Watch the Rugby League World Cup
Watch all of the Rugby League World Cup matches live on Channel 7 and 7plus.
Tail our 2026 Rugby League World Cup Tips at Dabble!
Not familiar with Dabble or want to learn more? Check out our full Dabble review here, or by clicking the banner below.
