Women’s Rugby World Cup: Australia vs. USA. Epic Draw and Surprises

Week 2 Recap at the Women’s Rugby World Cup

The second week of the Women’s Rugby World Cup gave us strong emotions, including an epic tie between Australia and the United States (31-31) and South Africa’s surprising victory over Italy. The outcome of the quarterfinals is at stake, with Australia and the United States competing for a spot. England, Scotland, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, France, and South Africa have already secured their place. The last week promises more action and drama in the tournament.

Australia vs. United States: A Draw with Consequences

The tie between Australia and the United States left everyone expectant. The situation is simple: the United States needs a bonus-point win against Samoa to have a chance of advancing. Australia, for its part, with a bonus point, secures its place in the next phase. In the event that Australia loses without a bonus point and the United States gets theirs, the point difference will be decisive.

The pressure is on Australia, who must get a good result against England. The challenge is great, as England is a formidable team.

Ilona Maher: A Standout Player

Ilona Maher proved her worth in the match against Australia, standing out for her powerful play, gaining meters after contact and recovering three balls.

“We were in a constant exchange and then we got ahead towards the end, and then they scored again”, Maher commented.

Ilona Maher

England: A Team with Depth

England seems to have two starting teams in operation, but 14 of the 15 starters for the qualifiers are likely to be defined. The team that played against the United States will likely lead England in the tournament.

The key decision is who will play on the wing. Will it be Jess Breach or Claudia Moloney-Macdonald? Breach stood out with a hat-trick against Samoa. Coach John Mitchell will decide who will play against Australia.

South Africa Makes History

South Africa starred in a historic moment by qualifying for the quarter-finals for the first time, after defeating Italy (29-24). Emotion and celebrations erupted.

In the next week, they will face France to determine who will finish at the top of Group D.

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe: New Brand in New Zealand

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe became New Zealand’s top try scorer, surpassing Doug Howlett’s record. The player came out of retirement to seek her third world title.

Young Promises: The Future of Rugby

Caitlyn Halse and Braxton Sorensen-McGee, both 18, shine in the tournament. Sorensen-McGee scored a hat-trick for New Zealand, while Halse was key for Australia with four tries.

Halse has been fundamental for Australia, while Sorensen-McGee has become an offensive threat for New Zealand.

Highlighted Moments

South Africa’s historic moment is one of the most outstanding of the tournament.

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Video of South Africa’s historic victory.