Mitchell hails Canada as England prepare for Women’s Rugby World Cup Final
England head coach John Mitchell has acknowledged Canada’s “outstanding” form ahead of the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final, framing the showdown as a meeting of two in-form sides with well-defined identities. The message out of the Red Roses camp is one of respect and clarity: Canada’s blend of physicality, fitness and skill will test England across the park, from collision to contestable kicks and transition play.
Mitchell’s tone underscores England’s strategic priorities: discipline, set-piece efficiency and accuracy in the kicking and chase game. Finals frequently come down to territory, exit quality and defensive cohesion under pressure. England will also lean on their leadership group to steer momentum swings, manage the referee relationship and maintain composure in the final quarter.
Canada’s rise has been built on relentless work-rate and sharp decision-making, forcing opponents to absorb long passages of pressure. England, meanwhile, bring depth, versatility and a track record of delivering in tight moments. The matchup promises a clash of strengths — maul against maul, gainline against line-speed — where small details and bench impact could prove decisive.
With anticipation building and the margins razor-thin, Mitchell’s praise reflects both realism and readiness. The Red Roses will back their preparation, but they know they will have to be at their very best to lift the trophy against a Canada side that has earned every plaudit on the road to the final.
