England and France Clash for a Place in the World Cup Final
The stage is set in Bristol for one of the most anticipated matches of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 — England versus France in the semi-final. This isn’t just another fixture; it’s a battle between fierce rivals with a history of dramatic encounters, and a chance to reach the final at Twickenham next week.
England, the hosts and world number one side, enter this contest as clear favourites. Their dominance over France is hard to ignore: 16 consecutive victories, including a crushing 40-6 warm-up win just last month. Yet, history has shown that France cannot be underestimated. Back in April’s Six Nations decider, Les Bleues pushed England to the brink in a nail-biting 43-42 thriller. That reminder of French unpredictability adds a layer of suspense to Saturday’s showdown.
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The Red Roses have been in unstoppable form. Their quarter-final saw them sweep aside Scotland 40-8, extending a world record winning run to 31 matches. Across the tournament, England have scored an astonishing 248 points and conceded only 25. Their forward pack has been brutal, powering through defences for 22 tries, while winger Jess Breach has dazzled with six of her own. France, meanwhile, survived a scare against Ireland, edging through 18-13. Their path included wins over Italy, Brazil, and South Africa, with attacking sparks from Joanna Grisez and Emilie Boulard, who have each bagged four tries.
But this semi-final is not just about numbers. It’s about history and belief. England have lifted the World Cup twice, in 1994 and 2014, and boast eight wins from nine previous semi-finals. France, on the other hand, have never reached a final, falling short in all eight of their past attempts, including three painful exits at England’s hands. For Les Bleues, Saturday is about rewriting that story.
Both sides have been forced into changes. England welcome back world player of the year Ellie Kildunne after concussion, while prop Hannah Botterman also returns. France, however, have been hit by suspensions and injuries, with co-captain Manae Feleu missing out, forcing a reshuffle that sees Marine Menager move to the wing and new faces stepping in.
The stakes could not be higher. The winner will face Canada, who stunned the rugby world by defeating defending champions New Zealand 34-19 in their semi-final. It will be Canada’s first final in over a decade, and their fearless display has left many wondering whether the balance of power in women’s rugby is shifting.
As kick-off approaches at Ashton Gate, one thing is certain: England’s power and precision will be tested by France’s flair and fight. The Red Roses are tipped to march on, but France are determined to throw, in their coach’s words, “a bit of sand in England’s machine.” Whether this is destiny fulfilled for England or history broken for France, the rugby world will be watching every moment.
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