England claimed their first Women's Rugby World Cup in 11 years with a commanding 33-13 victory over Canada at Twickenham. The Red Roses triumphed in front of a record-breaking crowd to cap a transformative tournament for women's rugby.
Nearly 82,000 spectators packed Allianz Stadium for the final, setting a new attendance record for women's rugby. The sold-out crowd provided a fitting finale to a tournament that has broken new ground for the women's game.
Individual excellence shines
Hannah Botterman emerged as the tournament's standout loosehead prop despite a controversial tip tackle in the final. The England forward had declared her ambition to be "undoubtedly the best loosehead in the world" and justified that claim with dominant scrum work and breakdown brilliance throughout the campaign.
Amy Cokayne secured the hooker position after scoring from a driving maul in the final. England's lineout weapon proved fearsome throughout the tournament, with Cokayne adding to her reputation as a clinical finisher.
Canadian captain leads global praise
Sophie de Goede earned recognition as the tournament's premier lock forward. The Canadian captain was described as "simply put, the best player on the planet" after commanding the lineout and contributing crucial goal-kicking alongside her powerful carrying in the loose.
England's Morwenna Talling partnered de Goede in the team of the tournament after a breakthrough campaign. The lock forward emerged as a genuine gainline threat in both attack and defence with outstanding work-rate.
Back division showcases emerging talent
Ellie Kildunne claimed the fullback position after explosive performances in the final two matches. The England star became the tournament's poster girl with three spectacular finishes that showcased her pace and finishing ability.
New Zealand's Braxton Sorensen-McGee earned recognition as the tournament's premier right wing at just 18 years old. The teenage sensation combined frightening footwork with mature game management and reliable goal-kicking.
Tournament breakthrough moments
The competition featured standout performers from across all 16 nations, with Canada reaching their first final after defeating defending champions New Zealand in the semi-finals. Teams like Samoa and Brazil enjoyed breakthrough moments in the pool stages.
Sadia Kabeya topped the tournament's tackle count for England, while Scotland's Francesca McGhie unlocked new dimensions with her blazing speed. South Africa's Libbie Janse van Rensburg controlled proceedings against the Black Ferns to give world champions a genuine scare.
Sources used: "Original article" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
