France delivered a statement performance at Sandy Park as they routed Brazil 84–5 to secure their place in the quarter-finals of the Women’s Rugby World Cup.
From the first whistle it was one-way traffic: France scored early and often, racking up an astonishing number of tries through the breadth of their backline and the powerful finishes of their forwards.
Key performers racked up multi-try tallies, while the French pack imposed physical superiority at set pieces and in contact, creating space and quick ball for the backs to exploit.
Brazil, appearing in the 15-a-side tournament for the first time, provided a happier narrative thread when Bianca Silva broke through to score her nation’s historic first World Cup try — a moment that brought the Brazilian bench and traveling fans to their feet and suggested real potential for growth in the sport at home.
But the gulf in depth and experience ultimately told: France’s well-drilled systems, superior tactical kicking and ruthless finishing produced repeated line breaks and a relentless scoreboard.
The result leaves France well-placed in Pool D, with their comprehensive victory both a sporting triumph and a useful confidence boost ahead of tougher fixtures in the knockout stages.
For Brazil, the match provided valuable exposure and experience at the highest level; their courage and moments of individual quality will matter for the long-term development of women's rugby in South America.
Tournament analysts noted that France’s offensive philosophy — quick recycling, incisive support lines and a willingness to play expansive rugby — was rewarded handsomely here, and that their defensive transitions remained strong enough to repel Brazilian counterattacks.
As the competition progresses, France will be watched closely as potential favourites, while Brazil’s team will aim to build on the historic try and take lessons home as they seek to improve their competitiveness on the international stage.
From the first whistle it was one-way traffic: France scored early and often, racking up an astonishing number of tries through the breadth of their backline and the powerful finishes of their forwards.
Key performers racked up multi-try tallies, while the French pack imposed physical superiority at set pieces and in contact, creating space and quick ball for the backs to exploit.
Brazil, appearing in the 15-a-side tournament for the first time, provided a happier narrative thread when Bianca Silva broke through to score her nation’s historic first World Cup try — a moment that brought the Brazilian bench and traveling fans to their feet and suggested real potential for growth in the sport at home.
But the gulf in depth and experience ultimately told: France’s well-drilled systems, superior tactical kicking and ruthless finishing produced repeated line breaks and a relentless scoreboard.
The result leaves France well-placed in Pool D, with their comprehensive victory both a sporting triumph and a useful confidence boost ahead of tougher fixtures in the knockout stages.
For Brazil, the match provided valuable exposure and experience at the highest level; their courage and moments of individual quality will matter for the long-term development of women's rugby in South America.
Tournament analysts noted that France’s offensive philosophy — quick recycling, incisive support lines and a willingness to play expansive rugby — was rewarded handsomely here, and that their defensive transitions remained strong enough to repel Brazilian counterattacks.
As the competition progresses, France will be watched closely as potential favourites, while Brazil’s team will aim to build on the historic try and take lessons home as they seek to improve their competitiveness on the international stage.
