The stage is set for a seismic clash at Twickenham as England’s Red Roses prepare to face Canada in the Women’s Rugby World Cup final on September 27, 2025. The anticipation is sky-high, with a sold-out crowd expected to break the world record for attendance at a women’s rugby match. For England, it’s a shot at redemption, history, and the chance to inspire a new generation of rugby fans.
England’s path to the final has been paved with grit, teamwork, and a touch of magic—most notably from full-back Ellie Kildunne, who has emerged as the heartbeat of this formidable squad. Kildunne, recently crowned world player of the year, was instrumental in England’s 35-17 semi-final triumph over France, slicing through the French defense for two dazzling tries. “There is nothing to be scared of. There is nothing more we can do to be prepared for a World Cup final,” Kildunne declared, her confidence echoing through the squad. “You don’t prepare for a World Cup final in the last week – you prepare over the last three years. Everyone wants to be in that spot and now we are there. Everything we’ve done has led to this point. We’ve just got to back ourselves.”
The numbers from the semi-final tell their own story. France dominated possession, holding the ball for 61% of the match, but England’s defensive mettle shone through. The Red Roses racked up a staggering 231 tackles—more than double France’s 90—and forced four turnovers through the relentless efforts of centre Meg Jones. “I asked one thing from the girls and that was to choose how hard you’re going to hit and inspire the person next to you,” Jones told the media. “100% I think it’s exactly what we needed. Everyone’s always going to have comment on how we play and what the game looks like but let me just tell you that defensive set sums us up.”
Jones, who helped steer England to their seventh consecutive World Cup final, couldn’t hide her emotion after the whistle. “I was holding back the tears [after the semifinal], because I just think it’s everything we’ve built towards,” she said. “It’s huge for us. I honestly just think our biggest thing is inspiring a nation and little girls and boys around the country, super proud of what we’ve built and what we continue to build.”
England’s journey to this moment has been years in the making. Several squad members, including Kildunne and captain Zoe Aldcroft, honed their skills at Hartpury University’s ‘Block 16’—a rugby academy that has become a production line for the Red Roses. The togetherness forged in those formative years has been a secret weapon. “The environment is incredible,” Kildunne explained. “We back each other and there is a bond in the team like no environment or team I’ve ever been a part of. There is no-one else I would rather take the pitch with than this England team.”
But the road to glory is never smooth. England’s last World Cup final appearance ended in heartbreak, with a defeat to New Zealand in Auckland in 2022—their only loss in the last 33 Tests. Since then, the Red Roses have notched up 32 consecutive victories, a record that speaks to their dominance but also adds to the pressure as heavy pre-tournament favorites and hosts.
Standing in their way is a Canadian side brimming with belief and resilience. Canada’s journey to Twickenham has captured the imagination of neutrals everywhere. Forced to crowdfund 1 million Canadian dollars (about £538,000) to support their World Cup dream, the Canadians defied the odds with a stunning semi-final victory over the reigning champions, New Zealand. Their never-say-die attitude and underdog status have made them the darlings of the tournament. “Canada are a good outfit. No 1 vs No 2 in the world is a good watch for anyone who wants to get into rugby for the first time or if you are a seasoned watcher,” Kildunne said, acknowledging the challenge ahead. “The work is not finished yet.”
The final is more than just a rugby match—it’s a showcase for the women’s game and a testament to the investment made by the Rugby Football Union in Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR), now recognized as the world’s leading professional league. The pressure on England is immense. Not only do they carry the hopes of a nation, but they also shoulder the expectations of those who want to see the women’s game continue to flourish. “Pressure is such a privilege,” said captain Zoe Aldcroft. “We’ve learned that over the last three years. We’re going to stay calm and cannot wait to get out there for the final. Having a sold-out Twickenham is so special for women’s rugby. This is just the start.”
Yet, with the spotlight comes scrutiny. While England’s attack has often dazzled—witness their 20-metre driving maul try against France—there have been questions about their vulnerability near the breakdown and their discipline at restarts. Canada, with dynamic scrum-half Justine Pelletier orchestrating play, will look to exploit any chinks in the Red Roses’ armor. England’s challenge will be to maintain their defensive intensity, avoid costly penalties, and trust the process that has brought them to the brink of greatness.
For some, the final is a chance to exorcise old ghosts. The memories of England’s 1991 World Cup final loss to Australia at Twickenham still linger for those who were there. “The chance to be a world champion comes only once to a few people and never to most; winning, not entertaining is the imperative,” reflected a former player who experienced that heartbreak firsthand. The lesson for today’s Red Roses? Stay true to their identity and focus on the result, not the spectacle.
As the countdown continues, England’s players are determined to savor the moment and embrace the challenge. The team planned a recovery day after their semi-final win, before gearing up for the biggest week of their careers. Their mantra is clear: back themselves, trust the journey, and inspire the next generation.
All eyes will be on Twickenham this Saturday. Will England finally claim their second World Cup crown on home soil, or will Canada’s fairy-tale run reach its ultimate conclusion? One thing’s for certain: the Women’s Rugby World Cup final promises a spectacle of skill, heart, and history in the making.
