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last mo.

France Heavy Favourites as Ireland Recall Wafer for Women’s World Cup Quarter-Final in Exeter

Forecast wind and rain could turn the tie into a territory battle, with Ireland missing co-captain Edel McMahon.

Ireland’s Fiona Tuite runs with the ball during her team's Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 match against Japan
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Overview

  • Kick-off is 13:00 BST on Sunday at Sandy Park in Exeter, with live coverage on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer from 12:15.
  • Aoife Wafer is set to start for Ireland despite not playing since April, offering ball-carrying power after a long layoff.
  • Ireland are without injured co-captain Edel McMahon, removing leadership and experience from the matchday group.
  • France start star scrum-half Pauline Bourdon Sansus after her return to the lineup, and bookmakers rate Les Bleues strong favourites with handicaps around 20 points.
  • Heavy rain and strong winds are forecast, which analysts say could suppress scoring and suit France’s physical, territory-focused style in Ireland’s first quarter-final since 2014.