The Women's Rugby World Cup (RWC) 2025 kicks off with a Pool A clash as hosts England take on inaugural champions USA in the opener at the Stadium of Light on Friday.

England, the 1994 and 2014 champions and currently ranked world No. 1, is the team to beat in the tournament. They enter the RWC as favorites as the most in-form side: winning 57 of their last 58 tests.

After falling short in back-to-back grand finals in 2017 and 2021 to New Zealand, the Red Roses are back stronger than ever, and this time, they have the added advantage of playing at home.

Zoe Aldcroft captains the Red Roses at home. while Emily Scarratt is on track to become the first English rugby union player with appearances in five different RWCs.

The USA, ranked No. 10 in the world, won the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1991. After a year-long winless run, they broke the streak in July with a 34-21 victory over Fiji in Washington.

They head into the World Cup under the leadership of back-rower Kate Zacakary, captaining the side for the second consecutive tournament. Popular rugby star Olona Maher also returns to the country where she has made a massive impact with Bristol Bears in 2025.

The Sporting News looks at the key fixture details and how to follow the matches.

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Live stream: Fubo US, Paramount+

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