The defending champions, the Black Ferns, launch their campaign two days later against Spain in Pool C, with the weight of history on their shoulders and the target firmly on their backs.
And if you’re looking for strong opinions, inside knowledge, and a little bit of friendly banter to get you through the tournament, the Rugby Rivals podcast is ready to deliver. Released every Monday on the All Blacks YouTube channel, NZR+, and wherever you get your podcasts, Rugby Rivals brings together three great rugby minds – Sir John Kirwan, Ireland’s Andrew Trimble, and South Africa’s Victor Matfield – to debate the big calls.
When it comes to predicting who will lift the trophy, all three agreed: the road to glory runs through a familiar few.
Kirwan sees England as the team to beat on home soil:
“They have a bee in their bonnet because they lost to us in the final. They’re out-and-out favourites, incredibly hard to beat. But I hope every team, even those ranked eighth or ninth, realise this is a moment in time – play the games of your lives, because the women’s game is growing fast.”
Trimble believes Ireland are making strides but admits the gap to the world’s elite remains:
“We’ve seen a big uplift since becoming professional, but England, France, and New Zealand are still a step ahead.”
Matfield’s call? A battle between three heavyweights:
“Between England, New Zealand, and Canada – those teams will dominate. For us, getting to a semifinal would be the aim.”
With powerhouse squads, rising nations eager to prove themselves, and the memory of the electric 2022 tournament in New Zealand still fresh, this Rugby World Cup promises drama, skill, and a few surprises along the way.
And if you want to follow every twist and turn – plus hear three legends argue about who’s got it right – Rugby Rivals will be there every Monday to keep the debates alive. Watch on YouTube or listen on Apple or Spotify.