The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup kicks off in England this weekend. We’ve got betting previews, odds, and predictions for all eight Round 1 pool games.
Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025: Round 1 preview & best bets
The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup kicks off this Friday with eight pool-stage matchups across England. Hosts England meet the USA in Sunderland to start the action, while defending champions New Zealand begin their title defense against Spain in York.
Here’s our full game-by-game rugby union betting preview for Round 1, complete with best odds and value picks.
England vs USA
Friday, August 22 – 7:30pm BST – Stadium of Light, Sunderland
England open their home World Cup as heavy favorites with the top sports betting sites, riding a 27-match win streak since 2022. The Red Roses’ forward dominance and backline firepower should see them control the match, but the value lies with the Americans covering the huge spread. With Ilona Maher and Kate Zackary leading the charge, the USA can stay within the number.
USA +53.5
Australia vs Samoa
Saturday, August 23 – 12pm BST – Salford Community Stadium, Salford
The Wallaroos enter with momentum after a strong warm-up series, including a convincing win over Wales. Samoa bring plenty of flair, but the class and structure of Australia should take over. Rising star Caitlyn Halse adds an extra spark, and the Wallaroos look primed to clear the line.
Australia -35.5
Scotland vs Wales
Saturday, August 23 – 2:45pm BST – Salford Community Stadium, Salford
This Celtic clash should be tight, but Scotland’s pack has the edge. They edged Wales in the Six Nations and will lean on their forwards to grind it out. Expect another close one, with the Scots just good enough to cover.
Scotland -5.5
Canada vs Fiji
Saturday, August 23 – 5:30pm BST – York Community Stadium, York
Canada sit No.2 in the world ranking and looked sharp in their lead-up, hammering the USA and Ireland. Fiji bring creativity and unpredictability, but discipline in defense has been their issue. The Fijians can still produce enough moments to stay inside a massive handicap.
Fiji +51.5
France vs Italy
Saturday, August 23 – 8:15pm BST – Sandy Park, Exeter
France are tournament contenders despite a poor warm-up loss to England. Italy have improved but lack the consistency to match Les Bleues over 80 minutes. France should reassert themselves and win big to cover.
France -20.5
Ireland vs Japan
Sunday, August 24 – 12pm BST – Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton
Ireland have turned heads with recent wins, including one over New Zealand last year. Japan are improving, but Ireland’s physicality and defensive control should prove too much. The Irish are well placed to cover comfortably.
Ireland -21.5
South Africa vs Brazil
Sunday, August 24 – 2:45pm BST – Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton
Brazil make their Rugby World Cup debut, but they face a powerhouse in South Africa. The Springbok women have too much power up front and speed out wide, making this a likely blowout. The Boks should cover with room to spare.
South Africa -46.5
New Zealand vs Spain
Sunday, August 24 – 5:30pm BST – York Community Stadium, York
The Black Ferns begin their title defense against Spain, who are growing but remain far behind the world champions. New Zealand’s mix of power and skill should overwhelm Spain early, and the margin could balloon past the handicap.
New Zealand -64.5
Women’s Rugby World Cup Round 1 multi bet
- USA +53.5
- Australia -35.5
- Scotland -5.5
- Fiji +51.5
- France -20.5
- Ireland -21.5
- South Africa -46.5
- New Zealand -64.5
Women’s RWC Round 1 multi
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