The Sevens Stadium, located deep in the arid expanse of the Dubai desert, will serve as the crucible for both triumph and heartbreak this weekend as four rugby teams vie for glory in the final round of WXV 3 2024. With the title on the line, Spain, Samoa, Hong Kong China, and the Netherlands are set to clash in a high-stakes battle, but there’s even more at stake than just the championship. For these teams, there’s a chance to secure a ticket to the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, a life-changing opportunity that could reshape their futures.
A Shot at History: World Cup Dreams in Sight
Each of the four remaining teams holds a mathematical chance of securing one of the two remaining spots at the 2025 World Cup, to be held in England. For Spain, currently topping the standings with nine points after two rounds, the stakes are higher than ever. A victory this weekend could propel them not only to the WXV 3 title but also onto the global stage of women’s rugby.
“Getting the pass to the World Cup would mean fulfilling a dream, giving meaning to a lot of work and sacrifice on the part of all of us,” said Spain’s fly-half Amalia Argudo in an emotional interview this week. The importance of this moment for Spain goes beyond personal glory—it represents a significant opportunity for women’s rugby in Spain to take a giant leap forward.
“Furthermore, I believe that fulfilling this dream would open the door to many other dreams,” Argudo added, hopeful that qualification would boost the sport’s visibility, leading to increased sponsorships, funding, and competitive opportunities. For these athletes, qualifying for the World Cup offers more than just a sporting achievement; it’s a key to a better future, opening doors to career advancements and further growth for the sport in their home countries.
Stakes Have Never Been Higher
For teams like Samoa and Hong Kong China, who still have a fighting chance, this weekend’s clash is about more than just rugby—it's about rewriting their nations’ sporting histories. Securing a spot at the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 would not only mark a significant milestone for their national teams but also bring immense visibility to the game in regions where women’s sports often struggle for attention and funding.
Samoa, known for its physical style of play, has been a strong contender throughout the tournament and will be looking to channel that energy into their final game. A win this weekend would not only cement their place in the annals of WXV 3 history but could provide the springboard needed to launch them onto the World Cup stage, where exposure, sponsorships, and a better future for the game in the Pacific region could follow.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong China, a team that has grown in stature over recent years, will be looking to prove their mettle against fierce competition. The team’s determination to fight for every inch of progress has been a hallmark of their campaign, and while they may not be tournament favorites, their grit and resilience could turn the tide in their favor this weekend.
Facing Harsh Realities: Netherlands and Madagascar
For some, the harsh reality of WXV 3 is already sinking in. Madagascar, without a point from their two matches, has seen their dream of a World Cup debut slip away. Despite their best efforts, the African nation knows that this is not their year. But the experience gained from playing in such a high-stakes competition will undoubtedly lay the foundation for future growth, as Madagascar continues to build its rugby infrastructure.
The Netherlands, while still mathematically in contention, have come to terms with the likelihood that they won’t be heading to England next August. Despite this, the Dutch side can hold their heads high, knowing they fought valiantly and have made significant strides for women’s rugby in their country.
A Transformative Impact
For the players, coaches, and national rugby federations, securing a spot in the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 represents more than just a trip to England—it’s about validation. Validation for the countless hours of hard work, the sacrifices made, and the battles fought on and off the field to push women’s rugby into the spotlight. It’s a chance to show the world that their teams, their countries, and their dreams matter.
Moreover, the financial and infrastructural benefits that come with World Cup qualification could be transformative. Increased sponsorships, funding, and international exposure would not only help the teams grow but also inspire the next generation of female athletes in countries where rugby, especially women’s rugby, is still an emerging sport.
Emotions and Legacies at Play
As the final whistle draws near in Dubai, the tension is palpable. This weekend, more than just a title is at stake—lives and legacies hang in the balance. These athletes are not only fighting for a trophy but for the future of the sport they love. The emotion in their play, the fire in their hearts, will drive them through every tackle, every sprint, and every moment of this unforgettable weekend.
The WXV 3 final round isn’t just a rugby match; it’s a battlefield of dreams, where careers will be defined, and where the next chapter of women’s rugby will be written. This is a moment for underdogs, for believers, and for those who dare to dream of a brighter future through sport.
