Women's Rugby World Cup 2025: Samoa's 'Mission Impossible' Challenge Against England
Amateur Samoa are underdogs against world number one England, dubbed a 'mission impossible' as they aim for a historic upset after a heavy opening defeat.
Women's Rugby World Cup: England v Samoa
Venue: Franklin's Gardens, Northampton
Date: Saturday, 30 August
Kick-off: 17:00 BST
Underdogs Take on a Giant
Ranked 15th after a 73-0 loss to Australia, Samoa face world number one England in what coach Ramsey Tomokino calls a "mission impossible". The amateur side aims to use their collective spirit to "wilt the rose" and deliver the "upset of the year".
"It's the ultimate David and Goliath story," Tomokino said, urging his squad to trust their strengths despite long odds.
Personal Sacrifices
Six mothers in the squad left jobs and crowdfunded their trip, balancing family responsibilities with the World Cup dream. Captain Sui Pauaraisa, a clinical administrator, almost stayed home for her daughter's final school year but was convinced by her eldest: "Mommy you have to do this, you've got to go."
Prop Denise Aiolupotea, mother of four, admits to "mum guilt" but hopes her commitment inspires her children and other young Samoan girls to chase their goals.
A Cultural Call
The team's celebratory "chee hoo"—a spirited shout familiar in Samoan culture and popularised in Disney's Moana—adds morale as they target small victories on the field. Beyond Saturday's match, the players seek more professional opportunities in Super Rugby Aupiki, Australia's Super W and other elite leagues.
Samoa's squad embodies unity, sacrifice and cultural pride as they step onto the world stage, proving that true underdogs can inspire and create lasting impact.
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
Discover the latest news and current events in Sports News as of 29-08-2025. The article titled " Women's Rugby World Cup 2025: Samoa's 'Mission Impossible' Challenge Against England " provides you with the most relevant and reliable information in the Sports News field. Each news piece is thoroughly analyzed to deliver valuable insights to our readers.
The information in " Women's Rugby World Cup 2025: Samoa's 'Mission Impossible' Challenge Against England " helps you make better-informed decisions within the Sports News category. Our news articles are continuously updated and adhere to journalistic standards.