The Women’s Rugby World Cup has now reached the quarter-finals, meaning half of the competing teams have bowed out. England, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Scotland, Canada, France, and South Africa all advance, while the eliminated sides still leave the tournament with memorable moments to cherish.
Here are ten highlights from the pool stage that captured attention, some going viral along the way.
Fiji’s Emotional Farewell
Fiji captain Alfreda Fisher broke down in tears ahead of her team’s final pool match against Wales. “It’s the last one, but we’ll give it our best and finish on a high,” said the 21-year-old, Fiji’s youngest ever captain. Her side responded with a thrilling 28-25 win in Exeter. Head coach Ioan Cunningham praised the squad: “We set out on this journey to inspire young women and girls to play rugby back home in Fiji, and the team have done just that. I’m so proud of them.”
Samoa’s Moment of Pride
Samoa, whose part-time players had to crowdfund their way to the tournament, also had their special moment. Fly-half Harmony Vatau scored a penalty while trailing 47-0 to England, giving Samoa its first World Cup points since 2014. Though it was their only score in the pool stage, it sparked celebrations back home.
Brazil’s First Try
Debutants Brazil struggled in their early matches, failing to score against South Africa and trailing 72-0 to France. But star full-back and sevens captain Bianca Silva broke through with an incredible solo try, sprinting half the pitch. Silva, discovered through a charity project in the Brazilian favelas, scored a landmark first World Cup try in only Brazil’s 18th XVs test match.
South Africa’s Historic Qualification
South Africa’s women reached their first-ever World Cup quarter-finals, clinching it with a game to spare. After a comfortable opening win over Brazil, Sinazo Mcatshulwa’s late try secured a crucial 29-24 victory over Italy. Destructive number eight Aseza Hele shone with four tries in two games, establishing South Africa as a rising force in women’s rugby.
New Zealand’s Statement Win
World champions New Zealand displayed their timing and class, dominating Ireland 40-0 to top Pool C and set up a quarter-final against South Africa. Young stars Braxton Sorensen-McGee (18) and Jorja Miller (21) combined with experienced winners to make the Black Ferns a daunting prospect. Maggie Alphonsi commented, “The Black Ferns thrive off the stage and pressure. They love the World Cup.”
Scotland’s Quarter-Final Spot
Scotland became the first team to secure a quarter-final place after defeating Fiji 29-15. This marks their first Women’s World Cup knockout appearance since 2002, despite recent challenges, including ongoing mental health concerns among players. Francesca McGhie’s hat-trick in the opening win over Wales helped set the tone, though the 40-19 loss to Canada showed more improvement was needed before facing England.
England’s Record-Breaking Start
The Red Roses opened the tournament with a 69-7 victory over the United States at the Stadium of Light, setting a new attendance record for a Women’s World Cup match. Ellie Kildunne starred, scoring twice and dazzling fans with a brilliant grubber kick setup for Jess Breach. Kildunne will miss the quarter-final against Scotland due to concussion protocols.
South Africa’s ‘Bomb Squad’ Innovation
Springbok Women’s coach Swys de Bruin applied a bold strategy by introducing six forwards simultaneously in the 50th minute during their 66-6 win over Brazil. The move, echoing men’s coach Rassie Erasmus’ style, went viral on social media as fans chanted “bomb squad.”
USA’s Social Media Star
Ilona Maher, with nearly nine million followers, emphasized her identity as a rugby player first. Playing every minute for the USA, she made 163 metres and forced three turnovers. Despite not reaching the knockouts, Maher remains committed to following the tournament, celebrating women’s rugby growth in England.
Caitlyn Halse’s Viral Moment
Australia’s Caitlyn Halse captured hearts with a warm family embrace after drawing with the USA in York. The video of her father lifting her to the stands has 13 million views, and Halse’s two tries against Samoa and the USA justified all the attention.
Fans Fuel the Atmosphere
Over 410,000 tickets have been sold across all venues, with Twickenham’s final already sold out. Remarkably, 30% of attendees had never been to a rugby match before. Double-headers and star-studded crowds, including Lioness Chloe Kelly, former England captain Jamie George, and Catherine, Princess of Wales, have amplified the tournament’s atmosphere.
With the pool stage concluded, the knockout rounds promise even more excitement as the remaining eight teams chase World Cup glory.
