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 an epic match with the 31-31 tie between Australia and the United States, as well as the surprising victory of South Africa over Italy. Only one spot is left for the quarter-finals, which will be played between Australia and the United States. England, Scotland, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, France, and South Africa are already qualified. Excitement is guaranteed in the final week, where the matchups will be defined.

The Australia vs. United States Duel and the Impact on the Rankings

The tie between Australia and the United States generated uncertainty, but the possibilities are clear. The United States needs a bonus-point win against Samoa to have a chance of qualifying. Australia will advance with a bonus point, regardless of what the United States does. If Australia loses without a bonus point and the United States gets it, the point difference will be crucial.

Desiree Miller será clave para Australia, que necesita cuatro tries contra Inglaterra.

The pressure is on Australia, which must get a good result against England. England, known for its strength, will not give quarter.

Ilona Maher: A Prominent Figure

Ilona Maher proved her worth with an outstanding performance against Australia, winning three balls and excelling in the game. Despite her effort, disappointment was evident after the tie.

“We were back and forth, and then we got ahead towards the end and then they scored again,” Maher said.
Ilona Maher

England: A Team with Depth

England has an extensive squad, but it is likely that 14 of the 15 starting players will remain for the final stages. The team that played against the United States is the one that will likely lead England in the tournament. The main tactical decision is who will play on the wing, with Jess Breach and Claudia Moloney-Macdonald competing for a place.

Jugadoras de Inglaterra — Paul Harding/Getty Images

Coach John Mitchell will make decisions based on accumulated knowledge and recent performance.

South Africa Makes History

South Africa achieved a milestone by qualifying for the quarter-finals for the first time, after defeating Italy 29-24. The emotion and celebrations were overwhelming for the South African team, which will now face France to define who will lead Group D.

Jugadoras de Sudáfrica — Sudáfrica se emocionó después de su victoria sobre Italia.

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe: Scoring Record

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

Rising Young Stars

Caitlyn Halse and Braxton Sorensen-McGee, both 18 years old, have shone in the tournament. Halse, with four tries for Australia, and Sorensen-McGee, with a hat-trick for New Zealand, are making their mark on world rugby.