Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025: Who Will Stop England?

The “Red Roses” ready for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup

Amidst the anticipation and the rain, England’s “Red Roses” are finalizing details at the Stadium of Light, preparing for the start of the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup. The atmosphere, though calm during training, hides the growing pressure on the host team. The tournament, which kicks off on Friday, promises to be historic. With 375,000 tickets sold, surpassing the figures of previous editions, the event is expected to boost the growth of women’s rugby globally. This World Cup could consolidate England as the dominant force or witness a monumental surprise.

The tournament features figures like Ilona Maher from the United States, Ellie Kildunne, and Portia Woodman-Wickliffe. In addition, young prospects like Waiaria Ellis from Australia and Jorja Miller from New Zealand will seek to make their mark. The World Cup will combine professional, semi-professional, and amateur players, extending across England, from Sunderland to Brighton. World Rugby seeks to differentiate this tournament, prioritizing personality and closeness to fans. The number of female coaches is increased and the final at Twickenham will have female ground staff. The pressure on the “Red Roses” is high. The team, with an impressive history, including a streak of 26 consecutive victories, seeks victory at home. Players like Zoe Aldcroft and Meg Jones are key to the team, which aims for the tournament to boost interest in the sport.

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Coach John Mitchell emphasizes the importance of “cohesion” and the responsibility of playing at home. England seeks to consolidate its dominance, but knows that the competition will be fierce.

Canada and New Zealand are emerging as strong rivals. Canada, with Sophie de Goede, seeks to excel, while New Zealand, the current champion, has Woodman-Wickliffe. Australia, with Waiaria Ellis, also aims to advance. Ireland, Wales, and Scotland also have their goals. Ireland seeks the semi-finals, while Wales recovers after a period of change. Scotland faces contractual challenges that could affect its performance. Brazil and Fiji will participate in their first and second XV World Cups respectively, with inspiring stories of amateur players. South Africa, with Mary Zulu, seeks to make history, facing France, which will seek to improve its performance. Ilona Maher, with great influence on social media, is driving a change in the perception of women’s rugby. Her presence and that of other figures promise an exciting tournament.

The World Cup will be a showcase for women’s rugby, with the aim of increasing its popularity and giving the players the platform they deserve. England, with the motto “For the girls”, will seek victory in the final at Twickenham on September 27, although 15 other nations will seek to surprise.