Your Guide to the World Cup Final: England vs Canada
The World Cup final is the pinnacle of women’s rugby union, and this Saturday’s clash between England and Canada promises to be an electrifying showdown. As the two top-ranked teams in the world vie for the sport’s ultimate glory, fans are in for a treat. World number one England, hosting the tournament, has dominated proceedings, while underdog Canada has pulled off stunning upsets. This World Cup final isn’t just about trophies—it’s a story of resilience, professionalism, and national pride. Whether you’re a die-hard rugby enthusiast or a casual viewer, this guide will get you up to speed on everything from team histories to key matchups.
The Road to the World Cup Final
England’s path to this World Cup final has been a masterclass in consistency. As tournament hosts and the world’s top-ranked side, the Red Roses have been unbeaten, extending their world-record winning streak to 32 Test matches. They kicked off with a commanding 85-3 victory over the United States, followed by thumping wins against Samoa (79-0) and Australia (30-12) to top Pool A. In the quarter-finals, they dismantled Scotland 40-8, and the semi-final saw them edge France 35-17 at Ashton Gate. Across five games, England has scored a staggering 283 points while conceding just 42—a testament to their attacking flair and rock-solid defense.
Canada, meanwhile, has been the tournament’s surprise package, reaching their second World Cup final with grit and determination. Despite lacking full professionalism, they topped Pool B with wins over Fiji (48-10), Wales (28-15), and Scotland (21-0). Their quarter-final rout of Australia (46-5) set the stage for a semi-final thriller against defending champions New Zealand, which they won 34-19. This marks Canada’s first semi-final victory in the competition’s history, fueled by a grassroots fundraising campaign called Mission: Win Rugby World Cup that raised £530,000 (C$1m) for preparation. Their journey underscores the growing depth in women’s rugby beyond the elite professional setups.
Venue and Broadcast: Where to Watch the World Cup Final
The World Cup final takes place at the iconic Twickenham Stadium in London on Saturday, 27 September, kicking off at 16:00 BST. This venue, England’s rugby heartland, will host a record-breaking crowd for a standalone women’s match. With 82,000 tickets sold out a month in advance, expect to surpass the previous record of 58,498 set during the 2023 Six Nations clash between England and France at Allianz Stadium. The atmosphere will be electric, with Twickenham’s roar amplifying every tackle and try.
For those unable to attend, the match will be broadcast live on BBC One, BBC iPlayer, and the BBC Sport website and app. Coverage starts at 15:00 BST on BBC One and iPlayer, running until 18:35, with radio commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live from 17:00 and Sports Extra from 15:45. Live text updates and video highlights will also be available on the BBC Sport site from 15:00. If you’re tuning in from afar, check local listings for international streams to catch every moment of this historic World Cup final.
Don’t miss the third-place play-off beforehand at 12:30 BST, where semi-final losers New Zealand and France battle for bronze—another chance to see top-tier rugby action at Twickenham.
Captains and Coaches: Leading the Charge in the World Cup Final
England’s captain, Zoe Aldcroft, embodies the team’s leadership and versatility. The 28-year-old from Scarborough, primarily a lock, has shifted to blind-side flanker in recent matches. She overcame a knee injury sustained in the opener against the US to return strongly, her physicality and tactical nous key to England’s success. Under her guidance, the Red Roses are chasing redemption after the 2022 final heartbreak against New Zealand.
Canada’s skipper, Alex Tessier, brings experience to the fore. The centre is in her third World Cup and has thrived with Exeter Chiefs since 2023. Her composure will be vital against England’s onslaught.
Coaching-wise, England boasts John Mitchell, the 61-year-old New Zealander who previously shaped the men’s team’s forwards (1997-2000) and defense (2018-2021). Taking over the women’s side in 2023, he’s won every match, instilling a professional edge since England’s full-time setup began in 2019. They’re aiming for a third World Cup title—their first since 2014—and to cap a dominant era.
Canada’s head coach, Kevin Rouet, is a 38-year-old Frenchman who joined in 2019 as assistant before stepping up in 2022. His innovative tactics have transformed the non-professional side into finalists, proving that passion can bridge resource gaps.
Star Players and Try-Scorers to Watch in the World Cup Final
England’s Ellie Kildunne is the tournament’s breakout star, her full-back prowess lighting up the pitch. After missing the quarter-final due to concussion, she returned with two stunning tries against France, donning eye-catching cheetah-print boots from her sponsor. With four tries so far, she’s a marketing darling and a game-changer, her speed and vision pivotal.
Canada’s Sophie de Goede stands out as a rare goal-kicking lock, amassing 58 points—the second-highest in the tournament. Her 20 conversions, one penalty, and three tries could eclipse New Zealand’s Braxton Sorensen-McGee (59 points) in the third-place play-off. De Goede’s accuracy under pressure will test England’s defense.
Leading try-scorers highlight each team’s firepower. England has notched 43 tries overall, with wing Jess Breach topping the charts at six, including a hat-trick against Samoa. Prop Kelsey Clifford adds five, and Kildunne four. Canada counters with 35 tries, led by full-back Julia Schell’s six—all in a blistering 23-minute burst against Fiji. Their attack has been relentless, blending power and precision.
Head-to-Head History and Stakes in the World Cup Final
England holds a commanding edge in their rivalry, winning 33 of 37 meetings, with Canada claiming three victories and one draw (13-13 in the 2014 World Cup). The Red Roses have dominated lately, taking the last 13 encounters, including the 21-9 2014 final win and a 26-19 semi-final triumph in 2022. Canada’s last success was nine years ago in Salt Lake City. Notable clashes like the 21-12 victory in Vancouver’s WXV1 last October underline England’s superiority, but Canada’s semi-final heroics suggest they could spring a surprise.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. England seeks a third title (after 1994 and 2014) to heal the 2022 wound—a 34-31 extra-time loss to New Zealand that snapped their 30-match streak. Only three nations have won the nine previous World Cups: New Zealand (six), England (two), and the USA (one). Canada, runners-up in 2014, dreams of their first crown, inspired by the USA’s 1991 inaugural victory.
If scores are level at full-time, sudden-death extra time (two 10-minute halves) follows—the first points win it. If still tied, a kicking competition with five players per side decides the champion.
Previous World Cup Finals: A Legacy Worthy of This Showdown
The Women’s Rugby World Cup has delivered unforgettable finals since 1991. New Zealand’s dominance is clear, but England’s eight final appearances show their pedigree. Highlights include:
– 2022 (postponed from 2021): New Zealand 34-31 England – Eden Park, Auckland (heartbreak for the Red Roses).
– 2017: New Zealand 41-32 England – Ravenhill, Belfast.
– 2014: England 21-9 Canada – Stade Jean-Bouin, Paris (England’s last win).
– 2010: New Zealand 13-10 England – Twickenham Stoop, London.
– 2006: New Zealand 25-17 England – Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton.
– 2002: New Zealand 19-9 England – Olympic Stadium, Barcelona.
– 1998: New Zealand 44-12 USA – Amsterdam.
– 1994: England 38-23 USA – Raeburn Place, Edinburgh.
– 1991: USA 19-6 England – Cardiff Arms Park, Cardiff.
This World Cup final could etch new history, with England’s professionalism clashing against Canada’s heart.
As the World Cup final approaches, anticipation builds for what could be the most watched women’s rugby match ever. England enters as favorites, but Canada’s momentum makes this anyone’s game. Tune in and witness rugby at its finest.
