Women’s Rugby World Cup Final: England v Canada – line-ups confirmed, key battles and star power
The stage is set at Allianz Stadium in Twickenham for a seismic Women’s Rugby World Cup Final as England meet a confident Canada. Head coach Kevin Rouet has confirmed Canada’s matchday 23, and the North Americans head into the showpiece with an unchanged starting side—a telling vote of faith in cohesion and form.
Canada’s selection: continuity under pressure
Rouet’s decision to go unchanged underscores belief in systems and combinations. Expect clarity at set-piece, a hard-carrying engine room, and backline patterns built on pace and width. Continuity gives Canada the edge in early rhythm and defensive reads.
England’s focus: the battles to win
- Set-piece accuracy: Lineout timing and scrum discipline will decide territory, penalties and momentum.
- Breakdown intensity: Quick ball unlocks England’s shape; slow ruck speed feeds Canada’s line speed and counter.
- Kicking duel: Territory, exits and contestables will frame the middle third—and pressure the backfield.
- Midfield control: Gainline wins and distribution choices will dictate whether defences bend or break.
Red Roses leadership and form players
England captain Zoe Aldcroft has lauded teammate Megan Jones as “the best player in the world” on current form—high praise that reflects Jones’ game management and strike threat. Expect England’s leaders to target tempo, accuracy and scoreboard pressure before the hour mark.
What the final might hinge on
Canada’s cohesion versus England’s depth. If Canada’s unchanged XV settle first, they can force England to chase. If England win the aerial and breakdown exchanges, their bench could tilt the closing stages.
Final word: Form, faith and fine margins. With selections locked and strengths well signposted, the world title will be decided by execution under maximum stress.
