World Cup 2025: After making it to the last four of the Rugby World Cup, England now has only two more wins to go to become the world champion. England will face France in Bristol on Saturday, while the second semi-final will be played between New Zealand and Canada on Friday. So far in the tournament, England have won all their matches by a big margin, but they will face a tough challenge in the semi-finals.
New Zealand – Balance of experience and youth
Six-time winner of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, New Zealand, is a major contender for the title this time too. The team includes young talents such as teenage superstar Braxton Sorensen-McGee, offensive flanker Jorja Miller, and scrum-half Maia Joseph, who are strengthening the team along with experienced captain Ruhei Demant and great player Portia Woodman-Wickliffe. Coach Alan Bunting has developed a sense of collective purpose in the team. However, South Africa’s aggressive playing style in the quarter-finals challenged New Zealand’s start. Nevertheless, the team has overcome this hurdle and moved towards the final.
Canada – The Challenger
Canada is ranked second after England and recently proved their level of play by defeating New Zealand. More than half of their team has played in England’s professional league, which has improved their technique and strategy. The leadership of Captain Sophie de Goede, as well as the excellent performance of players like Julia Shell, Asia Hogan-Rochester, and Alex Tessier, strengthen the team. As a cohesive team, Canada has prepared well by raising financial support through campaigns like ‘Mission: Win Rugby World Cup’.
France – The Challenge Emerging from Underdog
The French team may be lagging behind England, but they cannot be taken lightly. They surprised everyone by defeating England by one point in the Six Nations competition. In the quarter-finals, France made a brilliant comeback and won a tough match against Ireland. Scrum-half Pauline Borden-Sansas and wing players Kelly Arbe and Joanna Grisez’s superb finishing make them a strong opponent. The team needs improvement, but their tenacity and tactical play can keep them in the title race.
England – Fight for the title
The England team is performing well in the tournament, but they will have to face a challenging team like France in the semi-finals. Their defeat against New Zealand in the last World Cup final has taught them a lesson. This time, the team has improved its game and worked on aggressive strategies. The strength of the team is their ability to make an early lead and strong forward play, but they will have to change their game according to the strategies of the opponents.