The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup is set to be the most thrilling edition yet, with a record-breaking 16 teams vying for the coveted 24-carat gold-plated trophy. The final will take place on September 27 at Twickenham, promising a spectacle like never before. Here’s a deep dive into the key narratives, teams, and players to watch.

England: The Unstoppable Force?

England enters the tournament as the overwhelming favorite, riding a 27-match unbeaten streak and playing on home soil. Their dominance in world rugby is undeniable, with just one defeat in 58 matches—a loss in the 2022 World Cup final to New Zealand. For the Red Roses, anything less than lifting the trophy will be considered a failure. Their blend of experience and youth, combined with the home advantage, makes them the team to beat.

New Zealand: The Defending Champions

While England is the favorite, New Zealand cannot be underestimated. The Black Ferns have a history of rising to the occasion, and despite mixed recent results, they possess the talent and experience to defend their title. Coach Allan Bunting has been preparing the team since 2023, and with a squad full of seasoned players, New Zealand could once again upset the odds.

Dark Horses: Canada and Ireland

Canada, ranked No. 2 in the world, is seen as the most likely team to challenge the top contenders. With a favorable draw and recent strong performances, including a draw against New Zealand and a win over France, Canada has the potential to make their first final since 2014. Ireland is another team to watch, having built momentum over the past 18 months. Their victory over New Zealand last September shows they can compete with the best.

Players to Watch

• Sadia Kabeya (England): A powerful back-rower, Kabeya is set to make a significant impact.
• Braxton Sorensen-McGee (New Zealand): At just 18, this young fullback/wing has already shown her potential with three tries since her debut.
• Aoife Wafer (Ireland): Despite a recent knee injury, Wafer’s dynamic play could be crucial for Ireland’s campaign.

What Makes This World Cup Different?

This tournament is set to break new ground, with larger stadiums, higher profiles, and unprecedented fan engagement. The final at Allianz Stadium is expected to be a sellout, with over 86,000 fans in attendance. The competition promises to be the most competitive yet, with nations worldwide investing in their women’s rugby programs.

Bold Predictions

• Wales to cause an upset in the pool stages.
• Australia to reach the semifinals for the first time since 2010.
• At least one of the top four teams (England, New Zealand, Canada, or France) to be stunned in the knockout stages.

The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup is not just a tournament; it’s a celebration of the growth and evolution of women’s rugby. With high stakes, fierce competition, and rising stars, this World Cup is set to captivate fans worldwide.