In a seismic clash that will be etched into rugby folklore, England's Red Roses vanquished their arch-rivals France 42-24 in a pulsating Rugby World Cup semi-final at a thunderous Twickenham Stadium. The victory not only secures their place in the final but also marks a record 17th consecutive Test win, cementing their status as the team to beat.
The match was a breathtaking spectacle from the first whistle, a brutal and beautiful exhibition of modern rugby. England's power game, orchestrated with clinical precision, ultimately proved too much for a gallant French side that refused to yield until the final moments.
A Frenetic Start and English Onslaught
The Red Roses exploded out of the blocks, showcasing the ferocity that has defined their campaign. The early pressure was immense, and it told quickly as the formidable English pack rumbled over for the opening try, setting the tone for a dominant forward display.
France, however, demonstrated their trademark flair and resilience. Striking back with a stunning counter-attack, they sliced through the English defence to score a magnificent try, briefly silencing the home crowd and signalling this would be no walkover.
Twickenham Erupts as Momentum Swings
The game settled into a brutal war of attrition, with both sides trading penalties in a tense arm-wrestle. The critical moment arrived just before halftime. As England hammered at the French line, a moment of individual brilliance created an overlap, sending a player streaking through to score under the posts. The conversion gave England a crucial 10-point lead heading into the break.
Emerging for the second half, England delivered what coach John Mitchell will hail as the perfect 'championship moment'. They absorbed early French pressure before unleashing a devastating blow, scoring a rapid-fire try that stretched their lead and seemingly broke French resolve.
French Flair Fights a Losing Battle
To their immense credit, Les Bleues refused to capitulate. They conjured a moment of magic, scoring a sensational long-range try that ignited hopes of an improbable comeback. But any resurgence was short-lived.
England’s superior fitness and relentless bench impact took over in the final quarter. They ruthlessly closed out the game, adding two more tries to put a glittering seal on a historic performance, the scoreboard reading 42-24 at the final whistle.
The Road to Glory
This monumental victory sets up a dream final for the host nation. The Red Roses will now await the winner of the other semi-final between New Zealand and Canada, with the ultimate prize in women's rugby on the line next weekend.
On this evidence, a nation dares to believe. This was more than a win; it was a statement. England, at a fever-pitch Twickenham, looked every bit the world champions they are destined to become.
