England’s Red Roses finally lifted the Women’s Rugby World Cup trophy 11 years after their last triumph, defeating Canada in front of a record-breaking crowd of 81,885 at Twickenham Stadium. The victory ended years of anticipation and brought tears of relief and joy for the players and fans alike.
Since full-time professional contracts were introduced in 2019, the Red Roses have dominated the sport, winning 74 of 76 matches. Their skill and cohesion were on full display in this final, showing why England is considered a powerhouse in women’s rugby.
Ellie Kildunne, the team’s “shaggy-haired secret weapon,” eased early nerves by scoring England’s first try with remarkable speed and agility. Her specially designed white boots helped her outpace multiple Canadian defenders, leaving the crowd cheering and waving signs that read “Kildunne and dusted.” Fans were electrified, knowing the match was far from over but feeling a sense of confidence in their team.
Canada started strong, scoring the game’s first try through Asia Hogan-Rochester, but England’s collective power and strategic play quickly took control. The Red Roses’ scrum and maul dominated, wearing down the Canadian forwards and setting up further tries. England’s secondary shove in the scrums and relentless physical effort gave them a consistent edge, leaving Canada struggling to gain momentum.
The atmosphere at Twickenham matched the excitement on the pitch. Fans arrived hours early, navigating heavy matchday traffic to witness the occasion. The pre-game entertainment, including Sophie Lloyd on electric guitar and a full-throttle rendition of “Livin’ on a Prayer,” helped raise energy levels. The crowd featured many young girls and children, a change from the usual Twickenham scene, and the excitement was reflected in cowgirl hats, ponytails, and colorful banners rather than the typical rugby attire.
England’s depth also played a key role in the victory. When starters showed signs of fatigue, substitutes entered seamlessly, maintaining intensity and pressure. Players like Sadia Kabeya and Alex Matthews contributed with constant defensive effort, slowing Canada’s ruck ball and disrupting their attacks. Abbie Ward’s ferocious play secured the Red Roses’ fourth try, reinforcing her reputation as one of the toughest players in the game.
While individual brilliance, like Kildunne’s try, caught the eye, it was England’s teamwork and strategic execution that ensured victory. The team’s ability to control rucks, maintain forward momentum, and execute mauls at crucial moments left Canada with limited options. By the second half, England held a 21-5 lead, forcing Canada to opt for a penalty rather than risk further contact with the English defense.
Fans and players alike celebrated the victory as a landmark achievement for women’s sport. Royal congratulations and messages from sports stars added to the occasion, though the day belonged to the players on the field. England’s win highlighted the importance of investment in women’s rugby, showing that resources, training, and professional contracts can elevate a team to world-class performance.
Canada’s efforts were admirable, given the financial challenges and fundraising efforts required to compete at this level. Their resilience, skill, and dedication ensured a competitive final, but they were ultimately no match for England’s combination of experience, talent, and tactical execution.
The Red Roses’ victory is likely to inspire future generations of female players and demonstrate the growing popularity of women’s rugby. With England now the undisputed champions, attention will turn to the next World Cup in Australia in 2029, where the hope is for more teams to match England’s level of preparation and skill.
The celebrations at Twickenham will be remembered for years to come, a moment where hard work, professionalism, and passion combined to deliver a historic win. The Red Roses’ triumph is more than a sporting victory—it is a landmark moment for women’s rugby and a source of national pride.
