New Zealand Defends Top Spot with 40-0 Win over Ireland at Women’s Rugby World Cup

New Zealand's Black Ferns dominated Ireland with a commanding 40-0 victory to top Pool C and advance confidently into the quarter-finals of the Women's Rugby World Cup. Teenage wing Braxton Sorensen-McGee was the standout player, scoring a hat-trick and assisting another try, continuing her impressive form with six tries in the tournament. The Black Ferns combined clinical attack and resolute defense, preventing Ireland from scoring despite their early pressure, and avenged their shock defeat to Ireland in last year's WXV1. Injuries to key Irish players, including Stacey Flood and Edel McMahon, compounded the challenge for Ireland ahead of their quarter-final against either France or South Africa. New Zealand's performance highlighted their depth and quality, with notable contributions from Sylvia Brunt and Stacey Waaka, setting up a likely quarter-final clash with South Africa. The match underscored New Zealand's status as reigning world champions with a strong blend of emerging talent and experienced players.