England stand as clear favourites — but pressure defines home World Cups
England enter the Women's Rugby World Cup 2025 final on home soil as undeniable favourites. Their approach to the mounting expectation has been deliberately calm and cohesive — even playful — a mindset summed up by a pre-semi-final slumber party designed to keep the squad connected and relaxed amid the noise. The message has been consistent: ignore the external chatter, control the controllables, and lean into processes that have brought them to the brink.
Experience, however, teaches caution. England legend Maggie Alphonsi still feels the sting of losing a home final in 2010, a reminder that the added weight of a nation can be as heavy as it is inspiring. Her reflections frame a timeless lesson for hosts: finals are won not by pedigree, but by clarity under pressure.
Canada’s dark-horse credentials
Canada have been the tournament’s quiet disruptors. Physical, disciplined, and efficient, they have navigated the competition without a blemish. That unbeaten run mirrors England’s — setting the stage for a final where margins will be thin and resilience decisive. The Red Roses bring depth and fluency; Canada bring belief and a ferocious work rate. It’s a meeting of the world’s top two sides, and the first time they’ve met in the final since 2014 — with the underdogs fully intent on flipping the script.
Hollie Davidson to make history with back-to-back World Cup deciders
World Rugby has appointed Scotland’s Hollie Davidson to referee the final between England and Canada at Allianz Stadium in London on Saturday, 27 September. In doing so, Davidson becomes the first referee to take charge of two Women's Rugby World Cup finals — a landmark for officiating and a testament to consistency at the game’s highest level.
What the models are saying
Data has had its say, too. A supercomputer prediction model has simulated the final and, in a result warmly welcomed by home fans, tipped England to lift the trophy. Predictions don’t win titles, but they add to the narrative: the hosts are expected to deliver.
The week-five pulse: social media brings the tournament to life
As attention narrowed onto the showpiece, week five delivered some of the tournament’s most engaging social moments — behind-the-scenes celebrations, player-led storytelling, and the vibrant fan culture that has lifted this World Cup. The digital chorus mirrors what’s happening in stadiums: enthusiasm, anticipation, and a growing sense that women’s rugby continues to break new ground.
Key themes to watch in the final
- Tempo and territory: England’s multi-layered attack will aim to stress Canada’s line speed and discipline.
- Set-piece battles: Both sides have been efficient; small gains at scrum and lineout could decide momentum.
- Composure in big moments: With a raucous London crowd, managing the emotional spikes will be critical — for players and officials alike.
Favourites, underdogs, and a history-making referee: the stage is set for a final worthy of a landmark tournament.
