The 2026 State of Origin series opened with one of the most dramatic matches in Origin history, as the New South Wales Blues stunned the Queensland Maroons with a thrilling 22-20 comeback victory at Accor Stadium.
Queensland looked unstoppable early, racing out to a 20-0 lead inside the opening 17 minutes. Tries to Robert Toia, Thomas Flegler, and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow shocked the massive Sydney crowd, while debutant Sam Walker converted every try to give the Maroons total control.
The Blues struggled badly in the first half with errors and missed opportunities, but they slowly fought their way back into the contest. Hudson Young finally got NSW on the board before halftime, giving the home side some momentum heading into the second half.
The biggest turning point came when Queensland star Kalyn Ponga was controversially sent off for a high shot on Tolu Koula. With the Maroons reduced to 12 men for the final stages, NSW lifted to another level.
Nathan Cleary produced a masterclass in the closing stages, controlling the game with his kicking and scoring a crucial try under the posts. Cleary was later named Player of the Match after leading the Blues’ incredible comeback.
Then came the moment that sealed the game. With less than two minutes remaining, veteran fullback James Tedesco leapt high to collect a bomb and score the winning try, sending the crowd into chaos. Cleary converted from the sideline to complete the comeback and hand NSW a 1-0 series lead.
The match instantly became one of the greatest Game 1 clashes ever, with fans and experts already calling it an Origin classic. Queensland will now head to Melbourne desperate to respond in Game 2, while the Blues are full of confidence after producing one of the biggest comebacks the series has ever seen.
Watch the game highlights here
