Tonga's 30-12 win over England at HBF Park before 18,302 fans was the nation's first victory over the English and a response to its two-point semi-final defeat in 2017.
The result also strengthens Tonga's World Cup semi-final prospects and marks the Pacific side as a serious contender.
England created chances under new coach Brian McDermott, with five-eighth George Williams directing their attack, but Tonga's defence held firm in the first half.
Stefano Utoikamanu scored Tonga's opening try, and two Isaiya Katoa penalty goals gave them a 10-0 halftime lead.
Williams helped Hugo Savala break through in the 46th minute, and Savala linked with AJ Brimson for England's first try.
After a high-shot penalty on Dallin Watene-Zelezniak changed the momentum, Haumole Olakau'atu and Tolu Koula scored in consecutive sets.
The pair of tries came within three minutes, extending Tonga's 10-6 lead to 22-6.
Dom Young narrowed the margin before Olakau'atu scored again, grounding Katoa's grubber with 10 minutes remaining.
Tonga also lost Latu Fainu after 17 minutes to a pectoral strain, though early reports said medical staff were optimistic it was not serious.
With head-to-head results the main tiebreaker, England must beat France and Papua New Guinea and hope Tonga defeats Samoa on November 1.
The Pacific sides meet at a sold-out CommBank Stadium in the group-stage finale.