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Herbie Farnworth with the ball against Tonga at the Rugby League World Cup (AP)

England face a potential early exit from the 2026 Rugby League World Cup following a 30-12 defeat to Tonga in their opening match.

Progression to the semi-finals is no longer entirely in England's hands, as they must win both remaining group fixtures and accumulate a higher points tally than Samoa in the combined table.

Head coach Brian McDermott emphasised that England must remain patient and improve their finishing near the try line rather than overplaying to chase points.

England next face France in Perth on Saturday 24 October, with the French team seeking to bounce back from a heavy 78-4 loss against Samoa.

Despite their precarious position in the tournament, England remain strong favourites to defeat France given their dominant recent head-to-head record.

In full England are heavy favourites against France but must avoid ‘tripping up’ in pursuit of World Cup…