Spain clinched the WXV 3 title and secured their spot in the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 after a tense 10-8 win against the Vodafone Fijiana team in the United Arab Emirates.
Fijiana’s full-back Luisa Tisolo had a chance to equalize in the dying moments of the match with a conversion that would have given Samoa the title, but she missed the kick, letting Spain celebrate their victory.
Samoa will also be heading to England for their first Women’s Rugby World Cup since 2014 after defeating Madagascar 46-15, which ensured their second-place finish.
In other matches, the Netherlands concluded their initial tournament with a strong 33-3 win over Hong Kong China, moving them up to third place in the competition.
In the match between Samoa and Madagascar, Samoa faced an early challenge when Madagascar’s Claudia Rasoarimalala scored within four minutes. However, Samoa quickly countered when Cassie Siataga crossed for a try. Despite having two players sent to the sin bin, Samoa maintained their lead with Siataga’s penalty and subsequent tries from Harmony Vatau and Joanna Fanene Lolo. Madagascar attempted a comeback through Tiana Razanamahefa, but Samoa’s scoring continued to secure their victory.
The Netherlands, knowing they were out of contention for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, showcased their talent against Hong Kong China. They scored first through Linneke Gevers and extended their lead thanks to Gaya van Nifterik’s try and penalties from Lieve Stallmann. Despite a tough game for Hong Kong China, the Netherlands secured a bonus-point victory with a fourth try from Stallmann.
In the final match, Fiji started strong with a penalty from Tisolo, but Spain controlled much of the game and took the lead with a try from Alba Capell. A late penalty from Zahia Perez was crucial as Fijiana’s last-minute try fell short when Tisolo missed the conversion.
Spain’s victory confirmed their position as champions, while Samoa will join them in England.