Chiefs Women shine on opening weekend of Rugby World Cup

Exeter Chiefs Women were proudly representing across the nation this weekend as the 2025 Rugby World Cup kicked off in style. From Sunderland to Sandy Park, Northampton to York, no fewer than nine Chiefs pulled on international jerseys and made their mark on the biggest stage watched by a total of 85,000+ spectators.

England v USA – Stadium of Light, Sunderland

The tournament curtain-raiser saw two Exeter stars go head-to-head. Maddie Feaunati made her World Cup debut for the Red Roses, coming off the bench in the second half to cap a memorable evening, as England powered to a 69-7 win in front of more than 42,000 fans.

On the opposite side of the scrum, USA stalwart Hope Rogers earned her fourth World Cup start. The loosehead was at the heart of the Eagles’ forward effort, battling valiantly against the tournament hosts, who showed why they are favourites to lift the trophy on home soil.

Canada v Fiji – York Community Stadium

A trio of Chiefs featured as Canada laid down a statement in Pool B with an 11-try, 65-7 victory over Fiji.

Alex Tessier, captaining from inside centre, looked assured despite facing a Fijian side intent on throwing the ball around. Up front, DaLeaka Menin was promoted to a starting role at tighthead despite initially being named among the reserves and anchored a pack that provided the perfect platform for Canada’s attack. Emily Tuttosi added impact from the bench, contributing in the closing exchanges as the Canadians closed out emphatically with Julia Schell scoring a remarkable six tires in a confident opening round win.

Tessier commented after the game: “That’s a very good win for us. We remained in control. That was our key points today; to retain the ball and be clinical in attack. We managed to stay composed throughout the game and then put a lot of points on the board. I think that’s very satisfying for a start.

“The way we started, we got a little bit excited. Cleaning up those little extra offloads will be key [going forward]. We also need to remain disciplined in defence. We got penalised too many times, particularly in the first half. That’s something to build on next week.

“We need to keep it one game at a time, switching our mindset to the Welsh team; that will be different to today.”

France v Italy – Sandy Park, Exeter

There was a special moment at Sandy Park as new Chief Francesca Granzotto made her World Cup bow at the stadium she will call home later this season. The full-back came on in the second half for Italy, cheered on by the Exeter faithful, though France proved too strong on the day, running out 24-0 winners.

The game was watched by 3.2 million viewers in France on TF1, which is a national record for women's rugby.

Ireland v Japan – Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton

Two more Chiefs pulled on the green jersey as Ireland got their Pool C campaign off to a flying start with a 42-14 victory over Japan. Flanker Edel McMahon, named vice-captain, set the tone with her leadership and work rate in a dominant Irish display. Hooker Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald added her experience from the bench with a few trademark powerful carries, making her second World Cup appearance and helping Ireland to a comfortable bonus-point win.

New Zealand v Spain – York Community Stadium

Completing the Chiefs’ international contingent, Amy Rule started in the Black Ferns’ front row as the reigning champions eased past Spain 54-8. Despite finishing the contest with 13 players after late injuries, New Zealand underlined their quality with eight tries to open their defence in style.

As the teams focus on recovery ahead of round 2, Sandy Park is gearing up for an enormous double header on Sunday 31 August. With this looking on course to be a sell-out, the atmosphere should be incredible, so make sure you don't miss out and secure one of the last remaining tickets here.