England triumphed over Canada with a 33-13 victory at Twickenham, winning the Women’s Rugby World Cup for the third time in front of a record-breaking crowd of 81,885. This win marks a significant comeback for England, following their loss to New Zealand in the 2022 final. Demonstrating their superiority, England secured a 21-8 lead by halftime and extended their remarkable winning streak to 33 matches, solidifying their place as a leading force in women’s rugby.
Coach John Mitchell lauded the team for their resilience and attributed their victory to lessons learned from past experiences and the foundational cultural values that guided their journey. The team’s exhilarating performance was a standout feature in a tournament that witnessed unprecedented attendance and viewership, highlighting the growing global interest in women’s rugby.
Sadia Kabeya was named player of the match, her relentless performance a testament to England’s skill and tenacity. The match atmosphere was electric, further energized by the substantial audience that had earlier witnessed New Zealand clinch victory over France in the Bronze final.
While Canada initially led with Asia Hogan-Rochester’s try, England swiftly took control, showcasing their strategic prowess with a remarkable play by Ellie Kildunne, the reigning world player of the year. Despite Canada’s spirited efforts and crowdfunded participation, they were unable to withstand England’s tactical execution.
This victory underscores England’s dominance in women’s rugby and highlights the expanding global reach and potential of the sport. Natasha Hunt, England’s scrumhalf, expressed hope that such achievements will foster a lasting legacy and spur future growth in women’s sports. The tournament has set a new standard, not only in terms of athletic success but also in raising the global profile of women’s rugby, paving the way for more thrilling competitions in the future.