Red Roses overpower Canada 33–13 as Matthews scores twice, record crowd caps a landmark year for women’s sport in England.
England’s Red Roses produced a commanding performance to win the Women’s Rugby World Cup for the third time, defeating Canada 33-13 at a packed Twickenham stadium and finishing an unbeaten campaign. In front of a record 81,885 spectators, England overcame an early try from Asia Hogan-Rochester to seize the lead via Ellie Kildunne’s sensational solo score and never looked back.
Hooker Amy Cokayne and No. 8 Alex Matthews powered over for further tries in the opening half, with Sophie de Goede’s penalty keeping Canada within touching distance. Abbie Ward’s try just after the break gave England control, and though Hogan-Rochester crossed again for her second, Matthews’ second try sealed a famous 33rd consecutive win.
England’s performance was built on set-piece power, tactical discipline, and relentless defense—typified by captain Zoe Aldcroft’s pivotal turnover and Hannah Botterman’s work in the scrum. Zoe Harrison was perfect from the tee, converting four tries, while Sadia Kabeya’s tireless work earned player of the match honors.
Canada, who knocked out defending champions New Zealand in the semifinals and featured 16 Premiership Women’s Rugby players, pushed England hard but could not keep pace for 80 minutes.
John Mitchell, appointed in 2023 to instill a winning edge in finals, celebrated with his squad as Twickenham roared for the first English world title since 2014. For a team who suffered in the last two World Cup finals, this was the redemption and domination they craved, turning heartbreak into history with depth, organisation, and composure at critical moments.
This final was more than a title,it capped a remarkable year for women’s sport in England, with the Red Roses’ victory echoing the national pride sparked by the Lionesses’ Euro 2025 triumph.
The team’s journey, fuelled by years of unbeaten play and major investment in women’s rugby, has set new standards and visibility for the sport, drawing huge crowds and inspiring a new generation across the country. The Red Roses will savour this win and lay down a fresh marker as the game grows on the world stage.
CREDITS:
Director: Alejandro Bernal
Text: Sathya Sansó Amado
