With seven of eight quarter-finalists already decided, the Women's Rugby World Cup group stage concludes this weekend, leaving only one spot up for grabs in Pool A. The USA and Australia are locked in a tense battle to join England in the knockout rounds, with the outcome likely to be decided in the final moments of their respective matches on Saturday.
The USA face Samoa in York, needing a bonus-point win and a significant points swing to leapfrog Australia. However, they require a monumental 135-point swing, meaning even a dominant performance may not be enough. Australia, meanwhile, face England in Brighton, where a win, bonus point, or draw would secure their progression. If they lose, they must ensure the margin does not allow the USA to overtake them on points difference.
In Pool B, Canada and Scotland compete for top spot in Exeter, with the winner avoiding a potential quarter-final against England. Canada are favourites, but Scotland captain Rachel Malcolm expressed confidence after their 38-8 win over Wales, stating: “Something that we’ve highlighted is that teams that play Canada don’t tend to get that many opportunities to score. It’s going to have to be better because we probably won’t get quite as many.”
Pool C sees New Zealand and Ireland clash in Brighton for top spot, with the winner facing the Pool D runners-up. Ireland caused an upset against New Zealand in September, but will be without star player Aoife Wafer, who is recovering from knee surgery. Head coach Scott Bemand said Wafer was “bursting to go” but opted not to risk her. Sam Monaghan and Edel McMahon return to the starting lineup.
France face South Africa in Northampton, with the French heavy favourites to top Pool D. South Africa secured a quarter-final spot with an upset win over Italy, but overcoming France would be a seismic achievement.
