@shesaballer What a welcome ceremony for the Ireland team ahead of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 👏 🎥 @Irish Rugby #shesaballer #irishrugby #womensrugbyworldcup #womensrugby #womenssports ♬ original sound - SHE’S A BALLER!

🎶 Soundtrack of Strength: “Power” by Little Mix

As Ireland and France charge into the World Cup, their journey echoes the fierce energy of Little Mix’s “Power.” With lyrics like “I’m a machine when I do it / I’ll be catching fire, gasoline when I do it,” the song mirrors the relentless drive of players like Béibhinn Parsons and Manaé Feleu—women who don’t just play the game, they redefine it.

Just as the chorus declares “You’re the man, but I got the power,” these teams are flipping the script on expectations, proving that control, courage, and charisma belong to those who dare to claim it. The pitch becomes their stage, and every tackle, sprint, and try is a verse in their own anthem of empowerment.

Pairing this song with the tournament isn’t just thematic—it’s immersive. It invites readers to feel the pulse of the game, the roar of the crowd, and the heartbeat of every woman who’s ever been told she couldn’t. Because now, she can. And she will.

🎶 ⚡👑🔥💃🧠🌱🇫🇷🇮🇪🎯🏉🏆 🔊 Power by Little Mix

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The wait is over, the jerseys are pressed, and the stadiums are buzzing.

The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup has kicked off in England, and two European powerhouses—Ireland and France—are ready to make their mark.

Though they’re not in the same pool, the possibility of a knockout clash is tantalizing, and fans are already dreaming of a showdown between the Green Wave and Les Bleues.

🌍 The Pools That Set the Stage

Ireland finds itself in Pool C, a group that’s anything but easy. Sharing the turf with defending champions New Zealand, rising Japan, and the ever-tenacious Spain, Ireland will need to bring its A-game from the very first whistle. Meanwhile, France enjoys a slightly smoother path in Pool D, facing Italy, South Africa, and Brazil. While no match is ever a walkover, France’s experience and depth give them a strong chance of topping their group and cruising into the quarter-finals.

🇮🇪 Ireland’s Comeback Story

Ireland’s journey to this World Cup has been nothing short of cinematic. After failing to qualify in 2021, the team underwent a transformation under head coach Scott Bemand, who took charge in 2023. Since then, Ireland has climbed to fifth in the world rankings and stunned the rugby world with a historic win over New Zealand in the WXV 1 tournament. That victory wasn’t just a fluke—it was a statement.

Leading the charge are co-captains Edel McMahon and Sam Monaghan, two warriors who embody grit and leadership. Brittany Hogan, described as “the glue that keeps the back row together,” is expected to be a defensive anchor. Add to that the electric pace of Béibhinn Parsons, the tactical brilliance of Dannah O’Brien, and the youthful fire of Aoife Dalton, and you’ve got a squad that’s hungry, fearless, and ready to rewrite history.

🇫🇷 France’s Silent Storm

France enters the tournament with quiet confidence and a squad stacked with talent. Coached by Gaëlle Mignot and David Ortiz, Les Bleues have long flirted with greatness but have yet to reach a World Cup final. This year, they’re determined to change that.

Manaé Feleu brings towering strength to the lineout, while Caroline Boujard and Gabrielle Vernier offer flair and finesse in the backline. And then there’s Jessy Trémoulière, the veteran kicker whose boot can turn the tide of any match. France’s pool may not be as daunting as Ireland’s, but they’ll need to stay sharp—especially with Italy and South Africa capable of springing surprises.

🧠 How the Tournament Unfolds

The format is simple but brutal. Sixteen teams are split into four pools. Each team plays three matches, and the top two from each pool advance to the quarter-finals. From there, it’s win or go home. The semi-finals will be held at Ashton Gate, and the grand finale takes place at Twickenham on September 27—a date every player has circled in red.

If Ireland and France both top their pools, they’ll avoid each other until the semi-finals. But if one slips to second place, a quarter-final clash could be on the cards. And let’s be honest—who wouldn’t want to see that?

🔮 Who’s Got the Edge?

England, playing on home soil, are the favorites. New Zealand, as always, are dangerous. Canada is rising fast. France sits just outside the top tier but has the firepower to go all the way. Ireland, though considered underdogs, are the wildcard no one wants to face. Their recent form, fearless attitude, and tactical evolution make them a genuine threat.

🎉 What to Watch For

Circle September 7—both Ireland and France play their opening matches that day. Ireland faces Japan in what could be a tone-setting clash, while France takes on South Africa in a test of depth and discipline. If both teams win their pools, the dream of a semi-final showdown becomes very real.

This World Cup isn’t just about trophies. It’s about redemption, legacy, and proving that women’s rugby deserves every ounce of attention and respect. Ireland and France are ready. 🎙️🇮🇪🇫🇷

#RugbyWorldCup 🏉 #GreenWaveRising 🇮🇪 #LesBleuesUnleashed 🇫🇷 #ClashOfTitans 🔥#ChasingGlory 👑