Rugby World Cup 2027: Samoa snatch final World Cup berth after 13-13 draw with Belgium

Abraham Papali'i, Tuna Tuitama and Miracle Fai'ilagi of Samoa pose for a photograph in front of the qualified banner following the match between Samoa and Belgium. Photo / Getty Images

Samoa snatched the final berth at the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia after a pulsating 13-13 draw against Belgium in Dubai today.

The Samoans have played at every World Cup except the inaugural edition but were pushed hard by a Belgium side targeting their first appearance.

Samoa finished top of the qualifying tournament before Belgium thanks to a bonus point against Namibia.

They were pushed hard. Belgium led 6-3 at halftime despite struggling in the scrum.

Castres back-rower 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 Rugby World Cup will feature 24 teams divided into six pools of four. The draw is scheduled for early December.

The other teams are hosts Australia, France, New Zealand, Italy, Ireland, South Africa, Scotland, Wales, Fiji, England, Argentina, Japan, Georgia, Spain, Portugal, Romania, Hong Kong, Zimbabwe, Tonga, Uruguay, Canada, the United States and Chile.