England's route to the Rugby League World Cup semi-finals is now precarious after Tonga beat them 30-12 in Perth.
The victory was Tonga's first over England and put Mate Ma'a in a strong position to progress.
England, coached by Brian McDermott, attacked expansively and made Tonga defend repeated early raids.
Neither side scored in the opening 25 minutes, until Isaiya Katoa set up reserve prop Stefano Utoikamanu for Tonga's first try.
Two penalty goals then gave Tonga a 10-0 advantage at halftime.
AJ Brimson scored for England in the 45th minute, but Tonga crossed twice within three minutes to extend its lead to 22-6.
Haumole Olakau'atu added a late try as Tonga completed the win.
Katoa earned man-of-the-match honours, while five-eighth Latu Fainu left with a pectoral injury that could end his tournament.
England must still face Papua New Guinea and France, but tournament head-to-head tiebreak rules leave its prospects uncertain.
Even if England wins both games, it would likely be eliminated if Samoa beats Tonga in Week 3.
Only the top two sides from the combined Groups B and C advance to next month's semi-finals.