"but there is a gulf to consider between the sides today; one that is reflective of the sport as a whole. England have spent at least five years as the best team on the planet. This is no accident as they are well funded by their Union at international level, have a thriving domestic competition and a profile within the sport that cuts through to other fanbases."
"Pressure makes diamonds, they say, but that's usually nonsense in a non-geological context. In a human setting pressure creates anxiety, and England's performances under the weight of expectation in their home tournament have become increasingly tight, albeit physically dominant. Canada have nothing to lose and are playing with a bruising freedom that raises pulses and smiles all round. This makes for a tantalising final."
England and Canada contest the Rugby World Cup 2025 final, with England heavy favourites and Canada ranked second. England have been the best team for at least five years, supported by strong union funding, a thriving domestic competition and broad sporting profile. Canada possess rare talent but entered the tournament amid financial strain, even crowdfunding their participation. England's home-tournament performances have been physically dominant but have tightened under expectation. Canada play with bruising freedom and nothing to lose, creating an unpredictable dynamic. England aim to capture the trophy that has eluded them since 2014 and to be the undisputed best team worldwide.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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