Women’s Rugby World Cup: Australia vs USA, Surprises and Key Players

Summary of Week 2 of the Women’s Rugby World Cup

The second week of the Women’s Rugby World Cup gave us unforgettable matches, including the 31-31 tie between Australia and the United States, as well as South Africa’s surprising victory over Italy. The quarter-final phase is almost defined, with a single spot to be decided between Australia and the United States. England, Scotland, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, France, and South Africa have already secured their place in the next round. The excitement continues in the final week, with much at stake to define the matchups.

The Key Duel: Australia vs. England

The outcome of the match between Australia and the United States left everyone expectant. The possible combinations are, fortunately, quite simple. The United States needs a bonus-point win against Samoa to have any chance of advancing. Australia, for its part, would qualify with a bonus point, regardless of the United States’ result. If Australia loses without a bonus point (fails to score four tries) and the United States gets their bonus point, the ranking will be decided by point difference.

Desiree Miller will be key for Australia, who need four tries against England.The pressure is on Australia, who needs to get a good result against England. The English team, known for its solidity, will not give any respite.

Ilona Maher: A Standout Player

Ilona Maher proved her worth in the match against Australia, standing out with her powerful play and winning three turnovers.

Ilona Maher won three turnovers for the United States against Australia.

We were in a back-and-forth, and then we got ahead towards the end, and then they scored again. I think it was disappointing because we had it and then mistakes happened.

Ilona Maher

The Depth of the English Team

England has a large squad, and it is likely that 14 of the 15 starters for the knockout stages are already defined. The team that played against the United States will likely be the one to lead England in the tournament.

Paul Harding/Getty ImagesThe key decision will be on the wings, with Jess Breach and Claudia Moloney-Macdonald competing for a place. Breach stood out against Samoa, scoring a hat-trick. The alignment of the English team for the match against Australia will be crucial, especially on the wings.

South Africa Makes History

South Africa made history by qualifying for the knockout stage for the first time, after defeating Italy 29-24. The team celebrated this achievement with great emotion.

South Africa was thrilled after their victory over Italy.They will now face France to define the leadership of Group D.

Woodman-Wickliffe: New Brand in New Zealand

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe became New Zealand’s top try scorer, surpassing Doug Howlett’s record with 49 tries. The player, who came out of retirement, is seeking her third consecutive world title.

Rising Young Talents

Caitlyn Halse and Braxton Sorensen-McGee, young talents from Australia and New Zealand respectively, have caught attention with their performance.

Braxton Sorensen-McGee scores a hat-trick against Japan.Halse, nicknamed ‘the Girl’ in Australia, has been key for the team, with four tries. Sorensen-McGee has become an offensive threat for the Black Ferns.

Highlights: South Africa’s Historic Moment

South Africa’s qualification for the knockout stage is the most memorable moment of the tournament so far.

A moment to remember