Ireland Secure Women's Rugby World Cup Quarter-Finals After 43-27 Win Over Spain

Ireland secured their place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup with a commanding 43-27 win over Spain, achieving their highest points tally in a World Cup match. Despite a dominant performance in attack, scoring seven tries and securing a bonus point by halftime, Ireland's defense showed vulnerabilities as Spain crossed the line five times. Key players such as Dannah O’Brien, Amee-Leigh Costigan, Eve Higgins, Anna McGann, and Grace Moore contributed significantly, with O’Brien's tactical kicking and scoring proving pivotal. The match was intense and competitive, with Spain mounting a strong fightback, but Ireland's resilience and strategic play ultimately prevailed. However, injury concerns, including to co-captain Sam Monaghan, and defensive lapses remain issues for Ireland to address ahead of their critical Pool C match against defending champions New Zealand. The Irish team will need to tighten their defense and maintain their attacking sharpness to challenge the Black Ferns in their upcoming showdown.