Samoa secured the final berth at the 2027 World Cup in Australia after a pulsating draw against Belgium in Dubai on Tuesday.
The Samoans have played at every World Cup except the inaugural edition but were pushed hard by a Belgium side targetting their first appearance.
The 13-13 stalemate saw Samoa finish top of the qualifying tournament ahead of Belgium thanks to a bonus point against Namibia.
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They were pushed hard. Belgium led 6-3 at half-time despite struggling in the scrum.
Castres loose forward Abraham Papali’i touched down for Samoa after an hour and the Pacific islanders increased their lead with a penalty.
A try seven minutes from time by Belgian captain Jean-Baptiste Decubber levelled the score, but it was not enough.
The 2027 World Cup will feature 24 teams divided into six pools of four. The draw is scheduled for early December.
Photo: World Rugby