The Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 kicks off with the inaugural match of England vs the USA on Friday, August 22 at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland.
As part of Pool A, the Eagles will also be facing Australia and Samoa in the group rounds – a tough draw, with both England and Australia placed above the Eagles in the world rankings.
Who are the Eagles?
The Eagles is the nickname of the USA’s Women’s National Rugby Union team, which was formed in 1987. The USA were the very first country to lift the World Cup trophy back in 1991, although they have been able to repeat this feat ever since.
Recently, they finished seventh in the 2022 World Cup in New Zealand, a demotion from their fourth position in 2017. Under the new coaching of Sione Fukofuka, who came into the USA set-up after previous coach Rob Cain announced his departure in January 2025, the Eagles will be looking to prove that they still hold an important place on the international rugby stage.
The USA World Cup 2025 squad
The 32 strong World Cup squad about to begin their campaign includes a staggering 15 players going to their first World Cup, injecting a new life and vigour to a side that has not managed to reach a World Cup final in over 30 years.
Among these new faces is internet sensation Ilona Maher, who has risen to dizzying heights of fame over the last few years through her social media about women’s rugby and empowerment. Maher, who started her rugby journey in sevens and recently transferred to 15s ahead of the World Cup, is a versatile back renowned for her powerful breaks and ability to floor opponents with her impressive tackles.
Alongside Maher, who just spend three months with the English PWR side the Bristol Bears, a huge 20 athletes in the 32 woman squad play for teams in England, giving them a unique understanding of the rugby landscape, atmosphere, and attitude in the host country.
Kate Zachary will be captaining the Eagles again, having also led their campaign at the 2022 World Cup in New Zealand. This will be her third World Cup experience, having been part of the squad in Ireland in 2017.
Loose head Hope Rogers will also bolster the team’s much-needed experience with so many newcomers, as she is set to play her fourth World Cup campaign.
Full USA World Cup Squad
Forwards:
Hope Rogers, Maya Learned, Charli Jacoby, Keia Mae Sagapolu, Catie Benson, Alivia Leatherman, Kathryn Treder, Paige Stathopoulos, Hope Cooper, Hallie Taufoou, Erica Jarrell-Searcy, Rachel Ehrecke, Emerson Allen, Tahlia Brody, Rachel Johnson, Freda Tafuna, Kate Zackary, Georgie Perris-Redding
Backs:
Olivia Ortiz, Cassidy Bargell, McKenzie Hawkins, Kristin Bitter, Alev Kelter, Emily Henrich, Ilona Maher, Nana Fa’avesi, Gabby Cantorna, Erica Coulibaly, Cheta Emba, Bulou Mataitoga, Sariah Ibarra, Lotte Sharp
Where to watch the USA?
The Women’s Rugby World Cup kicks off with the USA facing hosts England in Sunderland on Friday, August 22. It will be streamed live on BBC and on England Rugby’s YouTube.