England to face USA in 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup opener

by Frank Nickson Tuesday 22 October 2024

The tournament will kick-off on 22nd August

England's Red Roses will kick off their 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup campaign against the United States in the tournament’s opening match.

The highly anticipated fixture will take place on Friday, August 22, at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light, as revealed in the full tournament schedule announced today.

England, the tournament hosts and favourites, recently defeated the USA 61-21 at the WXV1 in Canada, and they will be looking to replicate that success when they meet again in the opening fixture. Led by head coach John Mitchell, the Red Roses will then face Samoa at Franklin’s Gardens on August 30 before concluding their Pool A campaign against Australia in Brighton on September 6.

The tournament features six double-header matchdays during the pool stages, ensuring exciting back-to-back rugby action for fans. New Zealand, the reigning champions, will begin their title defense against Spain at York Community Stadium on August 24.

Meanwhile, Scotland and Wales will face off in a highly anticipated Pool B clash at Salford Community Stadium on the opening Saturday, following Australia vs Samoa.

The pool stages will run across four weekends before the knockout phase begins on September 13. The quarter-finals will be hosted at Ashton Gate in Bristol and Sandy Park in Exeter.

The semi-finals will also take place in Bristol on September 19 and 20, with the grand final set for Twickenham on September 27.

“The confirmation of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 match schedule brings a wave of excitement as fans in the host nation and around the globe can now mark their calendars for this era-defining tournament,” said Sarah Massey, managing director of the tournament.

“With thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments guaranteed across the length and breadth of the country, the stage is set for the world’s top teams to showcase the very best of women’s rugby. Whether you’re a rugby fan or a newcomer, join us and be part of this unstoppable energy and historic moment!”

Click here for Full Fixtures.