PNG Kumuls Crush Lebanon 42-18 in Rugby League World Cup Opener

 Papua New Guinea’s Kumuls opened their 2026 Rugby League World Cup campaign in commanding fashion, overpowering Lebanon 42-18 in their opening match at Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby on Saturday.

PNG Kumuls Crush Lebanon 42-18 in Rugby League World Cup Opener/Photo Supplied

The home side produced a dominant attacking display, scoring seven tries and converting all seven to finish 24 points clear of the Cedars at full-time. Lebanon managed three tries and three successful conversions but struggled to contain the Kumuls’ attacking pressure.

PNG established an 18-12 lead by half-time before extending their advantage in the second period, with their attack finding the try line repeatedly as the match progressed.

Gairo Voro opened the scoring for the Kumuls in the seventh minute before Robert Derby crossed in the 19th minute. Nixon Putt added another in the 30th minute, followed by Finley Glare in the 42nd minute.

Epel Kapinias scored in the 47th minute, while Rhys Martin crossed in the 71st minute and Bailey Biondi-Odo added the final try in the 74th minute.

Martin was outstanding with the boot, converting all seven tries to contribute 14 points. He landed goals in the 8th, 21st, 31st, 43rd, 49th, 72nd and 74th minutes.

Lebanon’s points came through tries by Abbas Miski in the 35th and 53rd minutes and Tony Sukkar in the 39th minute. Alex Conti converted all three tries.

The victory gives PNG a strong start to their World Cup campaign, with the Kumuls delivering an encouraging performance in front of their home supporters in the nation’s capital.

The match was played under fine weather, with ground conditions reported as good.

Stat:  Papua New Guinea Kumuls 42 (7 tries, 7 conversions) defeated Lebanon Cedars 18 (3 tries, 3 conversions). Half-time score: PNG 18-12 Lebanon.