England secured Women’s World Cup glory on home soil as the Red Roses swept aside Canada to crown their dominance in front of a record crowd.
On a magical day for women’s rugby with Allianz Stadium, Twickenham sold out for the first time, the hosts romped to a long-awaited triumph secured in style 33-13. It had been 11 years since England had last lifted the trophy, including two agonising final near misses, but on their day of destiny, they were supreme for long periods. Extending their record unbeaten run to 33 matches, John Mitchell’s side lifted the trophy in front of a raucous audience soaking up a day of history.
For Canada, this proved one game too far but they had enriched this competition hugely. Kevin Rouet’s side had crowdfunded to bolster their preparations for this tournament in a sign of a challenging landscape that remains - and they were no match for England’s set-piece strength.
Follow all of the latest from the World Cup final with our live blog below:
England vs Canada live
- England romp to World Cup triumph in front of record crowd
- The Red Roses extend record winning streak to 33 matches with supreme performance
- 5' - Canada strike fast through Asia Hogan-Rochester (ENG 0-5 CAN)
- 8' - Ellie Kildunne with something out of nothing to spark England into life (ENG 7-5 CAN)
- 19' - Amy Cokayne capitalises on England's maul might (ENG 14-5 CAN)
- 27' - Alex Matthews capitalises on huge scrum to keep Red Roses in control (ENG 21-5 CAN)
- 50' - Abbie Ward punches in from close range (ENG 26-5 CAN)
- FT - England win the World Cup with dominant 33-13 victory
England banish Women’s World Cup woe as Red Roses crown dominance in front of record crowd
18:33 , Ciara Fearn
England banish Women’s World Cup woe to crown dominance in front of record crowd
Mitchell’s experience key to England’s success
20:00 , Ciara FearnEngland found the coach they needed in John Mitchell and his experience has been the standout factor throughout this World Cup week.
Coach and captain ❤️#RedRoses | #RWC2025 pic.twitter.com/J6JYa93xrO
— Red Roses (@RedRosesRugby) September 27, 2025
Sophie de Goede World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year
19:50 , Ciara FearnWhat a comeback on the biggest stage. Sophie de Goede has been named the 2025 World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year, in partnership with HSBC.
Like she has never been away. An incredible return to the biggest stage 🇨🇦
— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) September 27, 2025
Sophie de Goede is the 2025 World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year, in partnership with HSBC #WorldRugbyAwards | @HSBC_Sport pic.twitter.com/5WKnIIcdUm
Morwenna Talling: 'That was insane'
19:40 , Ciara FearnEngland forward Morwenna Talling: "That was insane. It was a hard-fought battle. We stuck to our gameplan. We knew we had to put on a show and we did that today.
"I think we've already put northern rugby on the map. I can't wait to be back up with the girls at Sale and start the season."
England are on top of the world!
19:30 , Ciara FearnDelight for England, but the spotlight now turns to the need for Canada to go fully professional and for wider investment to help other nations grow too.
England are on top of the world 🌍#RWC2025 | #CANvENG | #RWC2025Final pic.twitter.com/8IupiuoKhV
— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) September 27, 2025
A masterpiece by England
19:20 , Ciara FearnA masterpiece 🤍❤️#RWC2025 | #CANvENG | #RWC2025Final pic.twitter.com/31O6SsX5ai
— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) September 27, 2025
Sarah Bern: 'It hasn't sunk in yet'
19:10 , Ciara FearnEngland forward Sarah Bern: "I actually can't put it into words. It hasn't sunk in yet. We've never played in a stadium like this, we were so inspired. When we walked in, it was electric. I've never felt anything like this.
"We recognised we hadn't put in a full 80 minute performance. For us it was about believing in ourselves and believing in our game plan. This was a massive squad effort."
John Mitchell: 'I’m very proud to be a part of this'
19:00 , Ciara FearnJohn Mitchell speaking to BBC Sport: 'We’ve done a great job of capturing great rugby.
'It's so good to see how the girls have persevered.
'I’m an old bugger, sometimes you get them and sometimes you don't. Simon Middleton has made some amazing foundations and we’ve brought into that.
'I think teams kick too long, we got into a contest and got them to play rugby. Our defensive play around the ruck was exceptional.
'I’m very proud to be a part of this, I’m having a few beers tonight.'
Sadia Kabeya produced a fine performance on the openside
18:50 , Ciara FearnPlayer of the match Sadia Kabeya: "What will this bring? I think more people picking up a ball. Women's rugby is for everybody. All shapes, all sizes. Go pick up a ball."
Meg Jones: 'it's amazing how far we've come'
18:45 , Ciara FearnEngland centre Meg Jones: "I'm so proud. We faced adversity. This game doesn't care about adversity. It just cares about the repeated efforts you put in. I'm so proud of the girls, proud of the coaching staff. Proud of this one [Ellie Kildunne]. She's got a dirty step, she was amazing.
"It's crazy. You only have to look at the Six Nations and how we've grown. I think it's amazing how far we've come. Women's sport is on a high. Let's keep it there."
Ellie Kildunne: 'keep the cowboy hats coming!'
18:31 , Ciara FearnEllie Kildunne speaking to BBC Sport: 'No pressure, we thrive in this. We have big players. People care, look at this one (Meg Jones) smashing them week in week out.
'Keep the cowboy hats coming!
'We’ll be drinking, dancing and celebrating as a group.'
England lift the trophy
18:26 , Ciara FearnEngland's Zoe Aldcroft and Megan Jones lift the trophy as they celebrate with teammates after winning the final.
Sarah Hunter: 'A moment in time'
18:15 , Ciara FearnEngland's defence coach Sarah Hunter on BBC One: "It means everything. It's a moment in time for the women's game. For our girls to experience being world champions in front of an amazing ground is incredible.
"I'm just immensely proud of them. Everyone spoke about Canada's threat but we just stuck to our process. We denied them access at all points. I will forever be proud of them for what they've done today."
England get their names on the trophy
18:13 , Ciara FearnEngraved into history 🏆#RWC2025 | #CANvENG | #RWC2025Final pic.twitter.com/sAhXgcIlci
— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) September 27, 2025
A spectacular day for women's rugby
18:08 , Harry Latham-Coyle at Allianz Stadium, TwickenhamThis really has been quite some day. The nearly 82,000 who packed into Twickenham are still virtually all in their seats waiting for the trophy lift, a special atmosphere since the early knockings likely to continue long into the night. Commiserations to Canada, who are most honourable runners-up - but an English triumph on home soil could really catapult this sport into a new era.
For those in London, here’s how you can join the Red Roses to celebrate:
England to celebrate World Cup win with special event in Battersea
Individual honours awarded
18:06 , Ciara FearnAs the trophy presentation begins Canada’s Sophie de Goede is named Player of the Tournament.
Braxton Sorensen-McGee is celebrated for her prolific try-scoring, while England coach John Mitchell collects the coaching award.
Abbie Ward: 'what we've done has been special'
18:04 , Ciara FearnEngland World Cup winner Abbie Ward on BBC One: "Honestly as soon as the whistle went I just burst into tears. Its' truly been such a special day. A sold-out crowd at Twickenham. It was electric, in front of friends, family, it's amazing.
"The last final loss, that was then. This is a new team, this is a new chapter of women's rugby. It wasn't about righting wrongs. This is our little moment today. It's about this, this team has been special, what we've done has been special. The support, the crowd, the friends and family involved, it's been magical."
On her daughter watching on: "She's been on the side of the pitch waving like mad. I can't wait to pick her up and bring her on to the pitch. When you get occasions like today, it does make it worth it. It's one of those pinch me moments."
John Mitchell: 'got it spot on!'
18:03 , Ciara FearnEngland scrum-half Natasha Hunt speaking to BBC Sport: "This is unimaginable. I am so proud of the girls. I hope this stays for women's rugby."
On coach John Mitchell: "He has just kept it simple. He has been honest, sometimes brutally honest but I like that. He has got this week bang on. We played on the 16th member of the team - the crowd.
"I don't think any of us could have imagined it would have been like this. That is a testament to everyone behind the scenes and those who turned up today."
England win the Rugby World Cup
17:57 , Mike JonesCue the celebrations!
'I am so happy we could pull it off'
17:55 , Ciara FearnMastercard player of the match, Sadia Kabeya speaking to World Rugby: "It's amazing! Thank you to everyone who came out here today.
"It's a pinch me moment. It's been years and years in the making, I am so happy we could pull it off.
"All props to Canada they are a great side and they put up a great fight here today."
ENGLAND WIN THE WORLD CUP!
17:52 , Ciara FearnThe final whistle sounds and England are world champions for the third time after sealing a 33-13 victory over Canada.
A crowd of 81,885 set a new record for the largest-ever attendance at a women’s rugby union match.
An incredible achievement! Congratulations, @RedRosesRugby! 🌹🏆 https://t.co/uBrTMJmv2N
— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) September 27, 2025
The celebrations begin!
17:49 , Ciara Fearn
Full-time! England 33-13 Canada
17:45 , Ciara Fearn80 mins: England win the penalty at the breakdown for a neck roll.
And it’s full-time! England have won the World Cup!
England 33-13 Canada
17:41 , Ciara Fearn75 mins: England withstand another Canadian assault and after 13 phases the visitors are penalised for a forward pass.
The stadium attendance is revealed as 81,885 marking the second-largest crowd for any World Cup final, men’s or women’s.
England flanker Sadia Kabeya is the player of the match.
England 33-13 Canada
17:40 , Ciara Fearn72 mins: England’s defence is relentless, with some massive tackles keeping Canada from advancing past halfway.
Zoe Aldcroft continues to impress with her outstanding defensive efforts.
Try! England (Matthews) 33-13 Canada
17:34 , Ciara Fearn68 mins: Alex Matthews crosses for her second try of the match after a perfectly executed spiral kick that left the Canadian defence scrambling.
Zoe Harrison adds the conversion with ease.
England 26-13 Canada
17:31 , Ciara Fearn66 mins: Canada have a scrum inside England’s 22, but Mitchell’s side win the penalty at the set-piece - a crucial moment for the Red Roses.
England kick to touch for a line-out on the right but are penalised shortly after when Aldcroft knocks on following Clifford’s offload. Canada continue to press, yet England’s pack delivers an enormous shove to collapse the scrum.
England 26-13 Canada
17:30 , Ciara Fearn64 mins: Corrigan attempts a kick-and-chase past Kildunne but is penalised after getting to her feet following a tackle.
The referee then brings play back for an earlier offside by England. Canada kick to touch on the left and with Botterman returning to the field, England are back to a full squad.
England 26-13 Canada
17:26 , Ciara Fearn62 mins: England win a crucial penalty at the scrum, sparking huge celebrations among the Red Roses.
Substitutions follow with Muir, Cokayne and Hunt coming off for Atkin-Davies, Burn, and Packer.
England 26-13 Canada
17:22 , Ciara Fearn59 mins: Canada, with all the momentum push hard for another try and are quickly back in England’s 22 earning a penalty just in front of the line.
However, a knock-on from Canada hands possession back to the Red Roses who will have the scrum with only three minutes remaining of Botterman’s yellow card.
Kelsey Clifford comes on for Jess Breach to bolster the set-piece.
Try! England 26-13 (Hogan-Rochester)
17:17 , Ciara Fearn53 mins: Canada make their extra player count as Hogan-Rochester races down the left flank to score her second try of the day following a quick line-out move from the right.
The conversion is missed, keeping England’s lead at 13 points.
A turning point?
17:16 , Harry Latham-Coyle at Allianz Stadium, TwickenhamHmm - might that be a turning point? England have been super-physical all afternoon around the fringes, but that was definitely dangerous from Hannah Botterman, despite her protestations. She did well, in the end, to avoid fully tilting her prey and dropping her on her head, which would have drawn stiffer sanction. Canada have to capitalise.
Try! England (Ward) 26-8 Canada
17:13 , Ciara Fearn50 mins: Canada defend bravely over several drives on the line, but England keep the ball alive and recycle it.
Abbie Ward powers over for their fourth try and Zoe Harrison adds the conversion to extend the lead.
England 21-8 Canada
17:11 , Ciara Fearn49 mins: Kildunne charges up to halfway before Canada are penalised for entering the ruck from the side, allowing Harrison to kick to touch just outside the 22 on England’s right.
The forwards drive steadily following the line-out, with Botterman held up on the line and Harrison knocking the ball on.
However, the TMO highlights an earlier Canadian foul, and England are awarded a scrum just five metres from the try line.
England 21-8 Canada
17:08 , Ciara Fearn47 mins: Kildunne twists and turns but can’t break through the Canadian defence.
England are soon awarded a penalty and kick to touch, setting up another attacking opportunity.
Kildunne sparks another attack
17:06 , Ciara Fearn45 mins: Ellie Kildunne’s pace proves too much for the Canadian defence igniting another England assault.
However, some sloppy handling from the Red Roses gives Canada a penalty deep inside their own half.
England 21-8 Canada
17:05 , Ciara Fearn42 mins: Alex Tessier finds touch with a precise kick, but England win the line-out and clear their lines immediately.
Strong defensive work from the Red Roses keeps Canada at bay.
Kick-off! England 21-8 Canada
17:02 , Ciara FearnThe second half kicks off at Allianz Stadium with Canada moving left to right.
England are 40 minutes away from a World Cup win.
'Canada need to hold their line'
16:59 , Ciara FearnSpeaking on BBC, 2014 England World Cup winner Maggie Alphonsi said: “The way Canada started, came from England’s error.
“England over threw but Canada reacted to it, Hogan-Rochester holds her width. And it’s goodbye Canada and they get their try.
“Canada need to hold their line and find that 2 v 1 but it was a great start from Canada.”
Botterman comes up big again
16:50 , Harry Latham-Coyle at Allianz Stadium, TwickenhamWhat was I saying earlier about Hannah Botterman? That at the end of the half, there, is a perfect illustration of why she is so good - I counted three jackals in four rucks, the first two unrewarded by referee Hollie Davidson to her frustration but the third bringing the penalty she was demanding. England will be disappointed that that second maul try was chalked off for obstruction having had one ruled out for the same reason against Scotland in the quarter-final, but they feel in total control here, having done an outstanding job on Canada’s hurled forwards around the corner.
The Red Roses have been dominant
16:49 , Ciara Fearn
Half-time! England 21-8 Canada
16:47 , Ciara FearnThat’s three tries for England in the first half. Ellie Kildunne gathers a long kick and charges forward, but a knock-on under pressure gives Canada a scrum.
They push toward England’s 22, only for Hannah Botterman to force a turnover at the breakdown.
England 21-8 Canada
16:44 , Ciara Fearn38 mins: Canada lose the ball briefly, but quickly recover as England try to spread play.
Abby Dow tracks Hogan-Rochester’s long kick downfield.
No try! England 21-8 Canada
16:43 , Ciara Fearn36 mins: Hannah Botterman’s strong work earns a penalty on the edge of Canada’s 22 and England kick to touch on the right.
The resulting line-out sees another powerful maul with Amy Cokayne seemingly grounding the ball over the line.
However, a TMO review rules an infringement, penalising Muir and disallowing the try.
No try! England 21-8 Canada
16:42 , Ciara Fearn36 mins: Hannah Botterman’s strong work earns a penalty on the edge of Canada’s 22 and England kick to touch on the right.
The resulting line-out sees another powerful maul with Amy Cokayne seemingly grounding the ball over the line.
However, a TMO review rules an infringement, penalising Muir and disallowing the try.
Penalty! England 21-8 Canada
16:40 , Ciara Fearn35 mins: De Goede closes the gap England 21-Canada 8. England’s clearance falls short, allowing Canada to maintain pressure.
After Amy Cokayne is penalised at the breakdown on the 22, Canada opt for a shot at goal.
Sophie de Goede steps up and slots it cleanly through the posts, cutting England’s lead.
England 21-5 Canada
16:36 , Ciara Fearn33 mins: Canada mount another threat from a left-side line-out driving close to the try line with a strong maul.
England’s resolute defence holds firm and Zoe Aldcroft snatches the ball from the back of the ruck allowing the Red Roses to clear into touch.
England's scrum turns the screw
16:33 , Harry Latham-Coyle at Allianz Stadium, TwickenhamEngland’s scrum is just marmalising Canada here. DaLeaka Menin has had an outstanding World Cup but she and McKinley Hunt just can’t cope with the combined might of Hannah Botterman and Maud Muir. Botterman can count herself pretty unlucky not to have been nominated for World Player of the Year - she really is the full package as an international prop.
England 21-5 Canada
16:33 , Ciara Fearn30 mins: Canada push for an immediate reply, but after struggling to breach England’s defence, Ellie Kildunne claims a cross-field kick and calls the mark allowing the Red Roses to clear their lines.
TRY! England (Matthews) 21-5 Canada
16:31 , Ciara Fearn27 mins: England drive superbly from the scrum with Hunt darting left before off-loading inside to Alex Matthews who has a clear path to score their third try of the match.
Zoe Harrison maintains her perfect kicking record adding the conversion to make it three from three.
England 14-5 Canada
16:29 , Ciara Fearn26 mins: England’s pack is tearing through Canada’s defence leaving the opposition struggling to contain them.
Another scrum is awarded to the Red Roses.
No try! England 14-5 Canada
16:26 , Ciara Fearn22 mins: England play under advantage, pushing for more points in a commanding display.
The Red Roses think they’ve scored, but after a TMO review there’s no clear evidence and the referee rules the ball held up.
TRY! England (Cokayne) 14-5 Canada
16:22 , Ciara Fearn19 mins: England win the line-out on their left and execute a long pass to Heard who barrels forward on a strong run just shy of the 22.
A breakdown foul gives them a line-out five metres from the try line. The England pack drives over with Amy Cokayne grounding the ball amid the chaos and Zoe Harrison adds the conversion to extend the lead.
England 7-5 Canada
16:18 , Ciara Fearn17 mins: A sliced kick from Harrison leads to a knock-on by Canada giving England a scrum just inside their opponents’ half.
England work the ball out to the right, but a wayward pass from Hunt misses Dow, sending the ball into touch.
England 7-5 Canada
16:15 , Ciara Fearn14 mins: Red Roses are applying the pressure. Hunt directs the forwards in a powerful drive, but referee Hollie Davidson brings play back for a knock-on by Abbie Ward.
Canada are feeling the heat under sustained pressure.
England 7-5 Canada
16:14 , Ciara Fearn12 mins: After ten minutes, Canada have dominated possession with 66% and 25 carries to England’s 10, but trail by two points.
The Red Roses now have a scrum near halfway and move the ball quickly to the wing, only for Karen Paquin to be penalised for not releasing the ball.
Ellie Kildunne makes her mark
16:12 , Harry Latham-Coyle at Allianz Stadium, TwickenhamIf in doubt, give the ball to Ellie Kildunne. There was little on there, seemingly, for the full-back as she stepped in to first receiver yet - as is very much her habit - Kildunne just seemed to apparate into space, and then hand the sheer athleticism to dance away to a mighty Twickenham roar. The reigning World Player of the Year (for an hour and a half or so more, at least) makes an early impact in some style.
La réponse anglaise est immédiate avec le slalom de Ellie Kildunne dans la défense canadienne !
— Rugby World Cup FR 🇫🇷 (@RugbyWorldCupFR) September 27, 2025
Score 5-7#RWC2025 pic.twitter.com/vUNXCOHLUd
TRY! England (Kildunne) 7-5 Canada
16:10 , Ciara Fearn7 mins: That was magic! Ellie Kildunne with space is so dangerous.
She glides past defenders with ease, leaving them in her wake - simply incredible.
TRY! England 0-5 Canada (Hogan-Rochester)
16:07 , Ciara Fearn4 mins: The Red Roses force a turnover, but the referee allows play to continue.
Canada come close to a 50:22 before Asia Hogan-Rochester seizes the space and charges over for the opening try.
Sophie de Goede hits the post with a conversion.
England 0-0 Canada
16:06 , Ciara Fearn3 mins: Canada move the ball quickly from left to right, but Ellie Kildunne makes a crucial tackle on a full-speed Alysha Corrigan.
The ball is worked back inside, but Forteza spills it, giving England a scrum inside their 22. A strong shove from the Red Roses’ pack helps them gain valuable ground.
England 0-0 Canada
16:04 , Ciara Fearn2 mins: There’s early pressure from Canada. They move the ball quickly out to Hogan-Rochester. An advantage is played resulting in an early penalty which they kick into touch.
Kick-off! England 0-0 Canada
16:02 , Ciara FearnZoe Harrison lifts the ball high and the Women’s Rugby World Cup final is officially underway!
Kick-off is fast approaching
15:58 , Ciara FearnThe atmosphere looks to be building at Allianz Stadium as we are just minutes away from kick-off!
Zoe Aldcroft and Alex Tessier lead their sides onto the pitch as the stage is set for the biggest game in women’s rugby history.
Time for the anthems.
Princess of Wales sends good luck to the Red Roses
15:57 , Ciara FearnThe Princess of Wales has joined a host of supporters wishing England well ahead of this afternoon’s final. Sharing a photo of herself in an England-themed cowboy hat with Megan Jones, Ellie Kildunne and Jess Breach, she wrote: “Good luck England!”
Good luck England! 🌹🤠 Wishing the very best of luck to the @RedRosesRugby in their Women’s Rugby World Cup Final at Twickenham today. We’re so proud of you! C pic.twitter.com/AqoVN1FUKP
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) September 27, 2025
England head coach John Mitchell: 'We've been here before, not with 80,000 in the crowd'
15:55 , Ciara FearnEngland head coach John Mitchell speaking to BBC Sport: ‘It’s a very big occasion.
'It’s so good, the girls have captured the country's imagination and we can show what we've done over three years and nothing else matters.
'We've been here before, not with 80,000 in the crowd but a lot of the players have played here, they know the place. We trust what we have built.
'We want to surprise Canada, and put pressure on them which they haven’t had yet.
‘My phone has been non-stop. I’m sure my wife will be happy for that to stop’.
Who are England's top try scorers?
15:50 , Ciara FearnJess Breach tops England’s try-scoring charts with six tries in the World Cup so far, placing her joint-second overall in the tournament alongside four other players.
She trails New Zealand’s Braxton Sorensen-McGee who extended her tally to 11 with two tries in the third-place play-off.
Kelsey Clifford has contributed five tries for England, while fullback Ellie Kildunne has crossed the line four times.
Canada head coach Kevin Rouet, speaking to BBC Sport:
15:45 , Ciara Fearn'We want to focus on the final, and the final hurdle.
'People might change their mind about the final. It’s a final so it’s always 50/50.
'We played them last year and we have learned from that game, We are not that team from last year and we want to prove that'.
Ilona Maher: 'I was never going to miss this history'
15:40 , Ciara FearnUSA international star, Ilona Maher speaking to BBC Sport: "I was never going to miss this. This is the biggest World Cup ever. I love playing rugby and women's rugby, I love watching this sport. I was never going to miss this history.
"I don't know who is going to take it and I am so excited!
"I love that you can see a tangible growth and the stadiums fill up.
"I think I have an affinity for England and I love what they are doing for rugby and Women's Rugby, They are doing so much for the girls, I love how much they are loving rugby.
"We need fans out there filling the stadiums more, it should be record breaking every game as that is how we are going to make our livings and I hope that we can do this through the professional teams."
England have the upper hand in this head-to-head against Canada
15:35 , Ciara FearnEngland have a commanding record over Canada winning 33 of their 37 meetings with one draw.
The Red Roses have taken the last 13 encounters including a 21-12 victory in Vancouver during WXV1 in October 2024, a 26-19 win in the 2021 World Cup semi-final in New Zealand and a 21-9 triumph in the 2014 World Cup final in France.
Their dominance stretches back nearly a decade with Canada’s last win coming in 2016 in Salt Lake City.
Crowdfunded camps to World Cup final
15:30 , Ciara FearnEngland’s opponents in the final, Canada are not fully professional having relied on crowdfunding to support their training camps and warm-up matches - yet they’ve battled their way all the way to a World Cup decider.
Canada have fewer resources and they’ll be eager to make their mark. It’s a reminder that women’s rugby deserves greater investment.
Making history: all-female grounds team prepares Twickenham
15:25 , Ciara FearnFor the first time ever an all-female grounds team is overseeing the pitch for a Women’s Rugby World Cup final.
Led by 15 skilled women the team takes the reins from Twickenham’s head groundsman, Jim Buttar, highlighting that groundskeeping is a career women can excel in.
With only 10% of grounds managers currently female and the sector facing a recruitment challenge, this initiative, supported by the Grounds Management Association, England Rugby and Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 - features Meg Lay, the first woman on Lord’s grounds team and Liddy Ford, the first at Wembley Stadium.
Red Roses receive quite the welcome
15:20 , Ciara FearnWith under an hour until kick-off Twickenham is basking in bright sunshine.
Emotions are running high as the England team bus arrives, greeted by cheering fans, creating a truly special atmosphere.
How this energy will translate onto the field once the match begins will be fascinating to watch.
This is a welcome the #RedRoses will never forget 🌹🙌❤️#RWC2025 pic.twitter.com/OxtSoF1M3v
— Red Roses (@RedRosesRugby) September 27, 2025
England make their entrance with just an hour left to go
15:15 , Ciara Fearn
King Charles' message of support to the Red Roses
15:10 , Ciara FearnKing Charles wishes England and Canada good luck ahead of today’s final.
He said: “My wife and I send our warmest good wishes to both the England Red Roses and Canada Women’s Rugby Team as you prepare for your World Cup final.
“What a remarkable achievement for both teams to have reached this pinnacle of the sport. I know that supporters on both sides of the Atlantic will be cheering with equal and tremendous pride.
“May the best team win, and may you both play with the spirit of sportsmanship, determination and true grit that makes rugby such a wonderful game to watch. Whatever the result, you have already done your countries proud.
“Good luck to you all.
Charles R”
Sabina Kabeya: 'The World Cup has been a showcase of the growth of our game'
15:05 , Ciara FearnEngland flanker Sadia Kabeya: "This World Cup has been a showcase of the growth of our game, and being part of it feels like a privilege. It has been a massive effort by everyone involved - staff and players - to get this point.
"We have had to earn the right to reach the final and every match has tested us in its own unique way, demanding the best from us. It’s first versus second in the world so it will be a fantastic occasion at Allianz Stadium.
"We can’t wait to see the thousands of white shirts, red cowboy hats and faces painted with Red Roses."
Red Roses’ winning momentum shows no sign of slowing
15:00 , Ciara FearnThe Red Roses closed out 2023 on a ten-match winning streak and carried that form into 2024 extending their run to twenty consecutive victories.
Undefeated in the Six Nations, Autumn Tests and WXV1, they have firmly established themselves as a dominant force in women’s rugby.
A standout contributor to this success was fullback Ellie Kildunne who scored 14 tries in ten games during the 23/24 season, dazzling with her pace and footwork and earning the World 15s Player of the Year award.
Building on this momentum, England claimed their seventh consecutive Six Nations title ahead of hosting the 2025 Women’s World Cup with anticipation now mounting across the country for their opening clash against the USA.
Red Roses and Canada's road to the final
14:50 , Ciara FearnThe Red Roses have powered through the tournament with emphatic wins over the USA 69-7, Samoa 92-3, Australia 47-7, Scotland 40-8, and France 35-17.
Canada have been equally impressive claiming victories against Fiji 65-7, Wales 42-0, Scotland 40-19, Australia 46-5 and New Zealand 34-19 to book their spot in the final showdown.
Huge crowds watch England arrive
14:46 , Harry Latham-Coyle at Allianz Stadium, TwickenhamI’ve just been out on the balcony out the back of the West Stand at Twickenham to watch England arrive to a rapturous reception from the assembled throngs of fans. There were more than 50,000 in for the third-place play-off between New Zealand and France, which was won by the Black Ferns 42-26 - and the crowds are only swelling.
How and where to watch?
14:40 , Ciara FearnTV channel: In the UK the game will be televised live on BBC One with coverage starting at 3pm BST ahead of a 4pm kick-off.
Live stream: The contest will be broadcast live online via BBC iPlayer.
Will England’s World Cup victory spark a bank holiday?
14:30 , Ciara FearnEngland take on Canada in the Women’s World Cup final at 16:00 BST on Saturday, but fans hoping for a celebratory bank holiday will be disappointed.
The UK government has acknowledged the Red Roses’ remarkable achievement in reaching their seventh consecutive final, yet has no plans for a one-off holiday citing the established schedule of public holidays and the estimated £2 billion cost to the economy.
Similar questions arose after England’s women’s football team won the European Championship earlier this year.
Here's the official Canada line-up for today
14:20 , Ciara FearnCanada XV: 1 McKinley Hunt, 2 Emily Tuttosi, 3 DaLeaka Menin; 4 Sophie de Goede, 5 Courtney O’Donnell; 6 Caroline Crossley, 7 Karen Paquin, 8 Fabiola Forteza; 9 Justine Pelletier, 10 Taylor Perry; 11 Asia Hogan-Rochester, 12 Alexandra Tessier (capt.), 13 Florence Symonds, 14 Alysha Corrigan; 15 Julia Schell.
Replacements: 16 Gillian Boag, 17 Brittany Kassil, 18 Olivia DeMerchant, 19 Tyson Beukeboom, 20 Laetitia Royer, 21 Gabrielle Senft; 22 Olivia Apps, 23 Shoshanah Seumanutafa.
Here's the official England line-up for today
14:10 , Ciara FearnEngland XV: 1 Hannah Botterman, 2 Amy Cokayne, 3 Maud Muir; 4 Morwenna Talling, 5 Abbie Ward; 6 Zoe Aldcroft (capt.), 7 Sadia Kabeya, 8 Alex Matthews; 9 Natasha ‘Mo’ Hunt, 10 Zoe Harrison; 11 Jess Breach, 12 Tatyana Heard, 13 Meg Jones, 14 Abby Dow; 15 Ellie Kildunne.
Replacements: 16 Lark Atkin-Davies, 17 Kelsey Clifford, 18 Sarah Bern, 19 Rosie Galligan, 20 Maddie Feaunati; 21 Lucy Packer, 22 Holly Aitchison, 23 Helena Rowland.
The Rugby World Cup trophy
14:00 , Ciara FearnThe 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup will be contested for a striking new trophy crafted from sterling silver and plated in 24-carat gold.
Standing 38cm tall and weighing 4.5kg its oval shape echoes a rugby ball, while the handles pay homage to the original design.
Engraved with past winners and etched with a world map it symbolises rugby’s global reach. Chosen by nine former world champions including England’s 2014 captain Katy Daley-Mclean this is the third different trophy in the tournament’s history, following the original 1991 award and a second version introduced in 1998.
Sixteen teams including debutants Brazil will vie for the prestigious prize in 2025.
Red Roses to stick to winning formula
13:50 , Ciara FearnHead coach John Mitchell has kept faith with the same XV that got the job done in the semi-final with Megan Jones and Jess Breach ever-present throughout the tournament.
Up front England’s pack has been a defining force - none more so than the 20-metre driving maul that powered Amy Cokayne over against France, a weapon they’ll hope to unleash again as they chase a third World Cup crown.
Red Roses World Cup pedigree
13:40 , Ciara FearnTwo of England’s matchday squad have already faced Canada on the biggest stage.
Natasha Hunt, 36, started the 2014 final while a young Alex Matthews at 21-years-old came off the bench for Marlie Packer in the closing stages of that 21-9 victory.
Nominees for World Rugby Women’s Player of the Year
13:30 , Ciara FearnCanada’s Sophie de Goede, England’s Megan Jones and New Zealand’s Jorja Miller are in the running for World Rugby Women’s Player of the Year with all three earning recognition for their outstanding form and influence this season.
In the Breakthrough category, New Zealand duo Jorja Miller and Braxton Sorensen-McGee join Fiji’s Josifini Neihamu on the shortlist after making a huge impact in their debut 15s campaigns.
England centre Megan Jones learned of her World Rugby Women’s Player of the Year nomination just after helping the Red Roses past France into the final. Having started every match of the tournament she’s been a driving force at the heart of England’s campaign.
England and Canada meet for a record ninth time with the Red Roses still unbeaten
13:20 , Ciara FearnTodays final marks the ninth Rugby World Cup clash between England and Canada, more than any other pairing in tournament history. The Red Roses remain unbeaten in those encounters with seven wins and a single draw.
Both sides bring serious attacking firepower: Canada have been ruthless in the opening 40 minutes averaging four first-half tries per game, while England have finished strongest leading all teams with nearly five tries on average in the second half.
Individual performances have also stood out. Canada captain Sophie de Goede has carried the ball 85 times in this World Cup - the highest tally of any player adding to her record-breaking workload in 2021.
Meanwhile, scrum-halves Justine Pelletier (Canada) and Natasha Hunt (England) have each provided eight try assists, the joint-best in the competition.
Morwenna Talling on Red Roses responsibility to inspire younger generations
13:10 , Ciara Fearn"When England last won the World Cup in 2014, I was 12. Although the coverage of the tournament wasn’t like it is now, it was so inspirational to see female rugby players achieving something with their country.
"We are now in that spotlight and hold a responsibility as Red Roses to inspire young girls and boys to take an interest in our sport, whether watching or playing, and we hope that our sport continues to raise its profile following on from this World Cup.
"It has been an awesome experience, but we have to earn the right to an even better experience this weekend at Allianz Stadium."
Megan Jones reflects on the significance of the final
13:00 , Ciara FearnMegan Jones: "This World Cup has meant more than just rugby. It’s about visibility, identity, and showing up fully - on and off the pitch.
"We’ve had to fight for every second of game time in this tournament. We’ve earned the right to be here - not just as a team, but as individuals who bring everything we are into this squad.
"To run out at Allianz Stadium, knowing the stories we all carry, the communities we represent, and the history we’re creating - that’s massive. That’s what makes this final week so powerful."
The sevens stars making an impact at the Rugby World Cup final
12:50 , Ciara FearnOne of the standout themes of this World Cup has been the influence of players who cut their teeth on the sevens circuit bringing speed and sharp spatial awareness to the fifteens game.
Canada, ranked world number two has leaned heavily on this crossover talent with stars like Olivia Apps, Fancy Bermudez, Alysha Corrigan and Asia Hogan-Rochester combining footwork and quick sevens instincts to dominate both attack and defence.
England too boasts a roster rich in previous sevens experience, including Alex Matthews, Ellie Kildunne, Helena Rowland and Megan Jones whose decision-making and ability to exploit space have been pivotal.
As the final approaches the stage is set for these sevens-honed stars to leave their mark and potentially decide who lifts the trophy.
Hosts England to use away dressing room for Women’s World Cup final against Canada
12:40 , Harry Latham-CoyleEngland will rely on the home support of a capacity crowd for their Women’s Rugby World Cup final — but the tournament hosts will be using the away dressing room for Saturday’s decider.
A new record attendance of about 82,000 is expected for perhaps the biggest game in women’s rugby history as the Red Roses, on a 32-match unbeaten streak, take on Canada rugby, the tournament’s form side, at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.
It is Canada, though, who will enjoy the comforts of the home dressing room having won a coin toss last weekend following the two semi-finals.
Hosts England to use away dressing room at Twickenham for Women’s World Cup final
Canada turn to unorthodox training method to prepare for World Cup final atmosphere
12:30 , Harry Latham-CoyleCanada trained with headphones on this week in preparation for the atmosphere of Saturday’s sold-out Women’s Rugby World Cup final against England at Twickenham.
Approximately 82,000 fans are set to be at Allianz Stadium in south-west London, which will smash the record attendance for a women’s rugby match.
The vast majority of those supporters will be cheering on the Red Roses as underdogs Canada, who sit second in the world rankings, seek to spring an upset.
Canada wing Asia Hogan-Rochester is among the players with experience of playing in front of a huge crowd, having represented her country at last year’s Paris Olympics when an unprecedented 66,000 people watched the opening day of the women’s rugby sevens programme at Stade de France.
“I feel like after a certain amount of thousands, it’s all just noise and you can’t hear each other either way,” said the 26-year-old.
Canada turn to unorthodox training method to prepare for World Cup final atmosphere
Why Canada feel they are ready to conquer England in World Cup final
12:20 , Harry Latham-CoyleCanada have wanted no part of the underdog tag at this World Cup, the second-ranked team in the world perhaps proving themselves the form team in the competition. They feel like this could be their time.
Why Canada feel they are ready to conquer England in World Cup final
England head coach John Mitchell: ‘Ultimately, I want to see these girls realise their potential’
12:10 , Harry Latham-CoyleFor Red Roses head coach John Mitchell, there is plenty on the line, too. A long, varied and distinguished coaching career does not so far contain a World Cup success - and this was the game that the New Zealander was appointed to win.
John Mitchell: ‘Ultimately, I want to see these girls realise their potential’
England face day of destiny against Canada as World Cup final launches women’s rugby into ‘new era’
12:00 , Harry Latham-CoyleFor England, this feels like a day of destiny. The best international rugby team in history are still seeking the ultimate prize to crown their dominance. Where better to end their World Cup hoodoo than on home soil, though
England face day of destiny against Canada as World Cup final launches new era
England vs Canada live
Friday 26 September 2025 14:36 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe biggest Women’s Rugby World Cup final in history is almost upon us, 82,000 fans preparing to pack Twickenham to the rafters as hosts England seek glory - but can Canada spoil the party?
Kick off is at 4pm BST.
