New Zealand vs Spain Preview & Prediction | 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup | Pool Stage

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Defending champions New Zealand will once again be one of the teams to beat in the competition, and their first obstacle in Pool D is Spain in York.

Kick-off date/time:

How to watch on TV: UK – Not televised / US – CBS Sports

How to watch online: UK – BBC iPlayer & the BBC Sport Website & app / US – Paramount+

New Zealand vs Spain prediction

Six-time champions New Zealand, the most successful nation in women’s rugby, begin the defence of their title on Sunday hoping to re-establish themselves as the leading nation in the sport.

The Black Ferns haven’t been entirely convincing since beating England in the final three years ago though, and they currently find themselves in third place in the world rankings behind England and Canada.

Down in 13th place, Spain do not boast the same talent in their squad but they are an experienced unit. This will be their seventh appearance in the Women’s World Cup, although they have generally struggled against the top nations.

It remains to be seen whether New Zealand have enough to go all the way again, but they should have too much for Spain here.

New Zealand vs Spain tip: New Zealand to win with -64.5 handicap