Sunderlands 'Stadium of Light' hosted the opening game of the Women's Rugby World Cup 2025 on the 22 August. The game between England and the USA set a new attendance record for a Womens World Cup game with an attendance over 47,000.

Given England's ranking as one of the best teams in the sport, it was unsurprising they ran out comprehensive winners with a final score of 69-7. Team USA had several good chances but some poor passing let them down at times.

Overall it was a fantastic game with a very good atmosphere.