England vs Canada LIVE: Women’s Rugby World Cup Final 2025

Overview: England vs Canada in the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup final

The Women’s Rugby World Cup reaches its peak as England and Canada prepare to clash for the title at 16:00 BST. The final pits the sport’s two traditional powers against each other, with both sides chasing history and a place in the sport’s growing narrative. Viewers around the world are set for a high-stakes showdown, with fans eager to see who will lift the trophy at the end of a tournament that has already delivered memorable moments and record-breaking crowds.

Lineups and key talking points ahead of kick-off

Lineups for the final are due ahead of kick-off, but the air is thick with anticipation about how England’s robust forward pack will square off against Canada’s pace and flair in the backline. In interviews, players and coaches have stressed the significance of this match beyond the result, highlighting the broader growth of women’s rugby and the responsibility to perform on rugby’s biggest stage.

Speaking to BBC Sport, Ilona Maher, a USA international star, said: “I was never going to miss this. This is the biggest World Cup ever. I love playing rugby and women’s rugby… I don’t know who is going to take it and I am so excited.” Her words capture the electric atmosphere and the universality of the competition’s appeal. England’s Meg Jones echoed that sentiment, noting: “This World Cup has meant more than just rugby. It’s about visibility, identity, and showing up fully – on and off the pitch.”

Venue, setting and a landmark grounds team

For the final, the matchday atmosphere is enhanced by a historic milestone: an all-female grounds team has taken charge of the pitch. Led by the renowned grounds staff at the venue, the 15-strong team embodies a push to broaden opportunities for women in stadium roles. The initiative, a collaboration between the Grounds Management Association (GMA), England Rugby and Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, marks a significant moment for the sport.

The funding story: fundraising to reach the world final

Rugby Canada has illustrated the challenges of competing on a global stage with a fractional budget. In March, the “Mission: Win Rugby World Cup” campaign sought to bridge a C$1 million funding gap to bring the Maple Leafs to the finals. Chief executive Nathan Bombrys described the gamble as “innovative” and, crucially, successful—the campaign now stands at 95% of its goal, funding camps, travel and daily operations. This behind-the-scenes effort underscores how a World Cup final can depend as much on fundraising as on on-pitch performance.

History lesson: 2014 final and what’s at stake

England and Canada have met in the World Cup final before, most recently in 2014 when England sealed victory 21-9 in Paris. Emily Scarratt’s solo try and a steady kicking display helped England lift the trophy, a moment many players from the current squad still carry with them as they chase a second title. The memory of that win adds extra motivation for the Red Roses in this edition of the final.

Where to watch and how to follow live updates

Kick-off is at 16:00 BST, with fans around the world looking for the best streams and coverage. This article provides pre-match context and updates, while official broadcasters will offer minute-by-minute action, replays and expert analysis throughout the final. Expect in-game insights, tactical breakdowns, and player spotlights as the match unfolds.

What this final could mean for the sport

Beyond the result, the England vs Canada final stands as a milestone for women’s rugby. From the growth of professional pathways to the visibility of players and staff, events like this final shape opportunities, inspire younger players and, crucially, drive fan engagement. As Ilona Maher highlighted, fan support in stadiums is essential to the sport’s sustainability and future growth.