“England Captain George Williams Embraces Underdog Tag Ahead of Tonga World Cup Opener in P” — what this page in the network covers. England captain George Williams says his team will relish being labeled underdogs when they face a powerful Tonga side in their Rugby League World Cup opener at Perth's Optus Stadium on Saturday. Williams, the Warrington Wolves halfback, acknowledged Tonga's formidable lineup featuring NRL stars like Jason Taumalolo and Addin Fonua-Blake, but insisted England are confident in their own preparation and talent. The match marks the first meeting between the two nations since the 2017 World Cup semi-final, where England narrowly won 20-18 in a tense encounter.
With both sides aiming to top Group D and secure a smoother path to the knockout stages, the result could set the tone for their tournament campaigns. England will look to experienced forwards such as Tom Burgess and Elliott Whitehead to match Tonga's physicality, while Tonga's passionate supporters are expected to create a hostile atmosphere. The full version stays on the original page, which this listing opens directly.