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

Week 2 Recap of the Women’s Rugby World Cup

The second week of the Women’s Rugby World Cup gave us an epic match, with a 31-31 tie between Australia and the United States, and a surprise with South Africa’s victory over Italy. Now, there is only one spot left in the quarterfinals to be defined, and it will be disputed between Australia and the United States. England, Scotland, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, France, and South Africa are already qualified. The final phase promises strong emotions.

The Key Duel: Australia vs. England

The big question is: Will Australia be able to beat England? The pressure is on the Australians, who need to get a good result in Brighton.

Women's Rugby World Cup: Australia vs. USA, Surprises and Key Players — Desiree Miller será clave para Australia, que necesita cuatro tries contra Inglaterra.

After the draw, the accounts are clear. The United States needs a win with a bonus point against Samoa to have a chance. Australia qualifies with a bonus point, regardless of what the United States does. If Australia loses without a bonus and the United States gets it, the point difference will decide. England, for its part, is a relentless rival. Coach John Mitchell will not allow his team to concede ground.

Ilona Maher: A Prominent Figure

Ilona Maher proved her worth against Australia, standing out for her power and effectiveness in the game. Despite her good performance, disappointment was evident after the tie.

“We had a very close game, and we were ahead at the end, but then they scored again. I think there was disappointment, because we had it in our hands and then mistakes happened,” Maher stated.
Ilona Maher

England: A Team with Depth

The “Red Roses” have a solid squad, and it is likely that 14 of the 15 starting players in the qualifiers will be the same ones who have stood out so far. The key decision is on the wings, between Jess Breach and Claudia Moloney-Macdonald.

John Mitchell, the coach, bases his decisions on the knowledge accumulated since he took office in May 2023, as well as on performance. The lineup for the quarterfinals is already taking shape. The choice of who will play against Australia on the wings will be crucial. Mitchell is likely to protect certain key players, such as Meg Jones and Breach, but Moloney-Macdonald will be looking to make her mark.

South Africa: A Historical Milestone

South Africa starred in a historic moment by qualifying for the knockout phase for the first time, after defeating Italy 29-24. The team will face France in the next match to define the leadership of Group D.

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe: New Zealand Record

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

Young Promises: The Future of Rugby

Caitlyn Halse and Braxton Sorensen-McGee, both only 18 years old, have shone in the tournament. Halse, with four tries, has been fundamental for Australia, while Sorensen-McGee dazzled with a hat-trick for New Zealand.