'We've got a job to do': Black Ferns target World Cup bronze final win
New Zealand’s Black Ferns are pouring everything into their final week at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, with a bronze medal playoff against France set to decide their farewell to the tournament. The message coming from the camp is pragmatic and purposeful: finish strong, play their game, and give supporters a performance to be proud of.
Reframing the goal: finish with pride
The bronze final is its own test of character. It demands a reset after the intensity of knockout rugby and asks a team to rediscover its identity quickly. For the Black Ferns, that means leaning back into their strengths: speed to the edges, accuracy at the breakdown, and composure under pressure.
Tactical focus areas
- Set-piece steadiness: clean ball from scrum and lineout to launch shape and release the backline.
- Breakdown accuracy: secure quick ruck ball while disrupting France’s recycle.
- Field position and kicking: smart exits, contestable kicks, and pressure on backfield coverage.
- Discipline: minimize penalties that hand France territory and momentum.
- Bench impact: maintain tempo late to close out the contest.
France as a foil
France bring power, structure and a capacity to slow the game to their rhythm. The battle will hinge on who dictates tempo: if New Zealand can raise speed, they open space; if France compress the contest, collisions and territory become decisive. Small moments — a turnover, a 50:22, a dominant carry — could swing the balance.
Beyond the bronze
Whatever the result, this week also serves as a springboard for the next phase of the programme. A strong finish can fuel competition for places, reinforce standards, and deepen fan connection. For now, the brief is simple and sharp: one more game, one more statement, and a chance to leave the tournament on their terms.
