Women’s Rugby World Cup – Pool C: Ireland vs New Zealand

📍 Venue: Brighton & Hove Albion Stadium
📅 Date: Sunday, 7 September
⏰ Kick-off: 14:45 BST

Coverage: Live on My Newspaper platforms from 14:30 BST, with text commentary also available on mynewspaper.io.

Ireland are preparing for a defining moment in their World Cup journey as they take on defending champions New Zealand in Brighton. This Pool C clash is more than just a group-stage fixture—it is a test of character, resilience, and ambition. Both teams have their eyes firmly set on topping the group, and Sunday’s battle is expected to be played at an intensity worthy of a final.

The Irish camp will draw confidence from their historic win over New Zealand in WXV1 last September, a result that stunned the rugby world and proved Ireland can stand toe-to-toe with the very best. That match was no fluke, and the squad is determined to show their progress by repeating the feat on an even bigger stage. With a strong team selection, Ireland have made it clear they are not looking past this contest. Their focus is on the present—on delivering a performance that will send a message across world rugby.

New Zealand, however, present the toughest test yet. The Black Ferns’ style is unique: quick rucks, fast offloads, and a relentless attacking rhythm that stretches opponents to their limits. Ireland’s defensive discipline will be crucial, as one lapse could open the door to a devastating score. Turning pressure into opportunities, winning turnovers, and forcing penalties will be key to Ireland’s chances.

The individual battles across the field will be fascinating. Portia Woodman-Wycliffe remains one of the most dangerous players in world rugby, capable of creating tries from seemingly impossible situations. Stacey Waaka offers intelligence and composure in the backline, while Jorja Miller has emerged as one of the tournament’s standout forwards, combining the speed of a winger with the strength of a back-row enforcer. Ireland, meanwhile, know they must tighten their line-out—a weakness against Japan and Spain—to avoid giving the Black Ferns unnecessary possession.

Beyond the technical side, Sunday promises a special atmosphere. A sell-out crowd of more than 31,000 is expected at the Brighton & Hove Albion Stadium, with Irish supporters making their presence felt in what has been dubbed the “Green Wave.” That passionate backing can give players an extra lift, though once the whistle blows, the noise fades into the background as focus takes over. Still, for the players, occasions like this are the ones that define careers and become lifelong memories.

This World Cup has already delivered dramatic moments, such as Australia’s thrilling 31-31 draw with the USA, and fans are hungry for more closely fought contests. Ireland against New Zealand has all the ingredients to be another classic—a match filled with tension, physicality, and world-class rugby.