England swept past Scotland 40–8 while France edged Ireland 18–13 to book a Women’s Rugby World Cup semifinal showdown next weekend in Bristol.
The Red Roses, unbeaten in 31 straight tests and the only team to reach all 10 World Cup semifinals, will meet France, who are in their ninth but still chasing a first final. New Zealand face Canada in the other semifinal on Friday.
England 40–8 Scotland
England’s pack dominated in heavy rain before 25,295 fans, sealing the result by halftime at 26–3. Player of the match Morwenna Talling powered over for a try, while prop Kelsey Clifford scored twice. Abby Dow added her 50th career try, and Amy Cokayne and Holly Aitchison struck after the break.
Scotland, in their first quarterfinal since 1998, scored a late consolation through Rhona Lloyd but slipped to a 28th straight loss to England.
“We built pressure through our set-piece and that’s where we broke them,” said England coach John Mitchell.
France 18–13 Ireland
In Exeter, France overturned a 13–0 deficit in wet, windy conditions. Charlotte Escudero’s converted try and Morgane Bourgeois’ two penalties drew them level, before Joanna Grisez’s decisive try sealed victory.
Captain Manaé Feleu clinched it in the final minute, spoiling Ireland’s last-chance lineout.
Ireland, playing their first knockout match in 11 years, had early tries from Linda Djougang and Stacey Flood but couldn’t hold out.
“We’re heartbroken. It went to the death,” said Ireland captain Sam Monaghan.
Looking Ahead
England have beaten France 16 straight times, but Les Bleues are determined to finally end their semifinal curse. The semifinal clash kicks off Saturday in Bristol.
English