The Spanish women’s rugby team, known as “Las Leonas,” has achieved a historic milestone by securing their spot in the 2025 Rugby World Cup in England. This achievement, backed by a team largely developed from Spanish grassroots talent, represents a significant turning point for the sport in Spain. After dominating the qualification tournament held in Dubai, the team emerged victorious in all three of their matches, finishing in first place.
The journey to qualification was sealed even before their final match, thanks to a crucial win by the Netherlands over Hong Kong (33-3), which ensured that both Spain and Samoa would secure the two coveted spots for the World Cup. However, despite their early qualification, Las Leonas continued to play with determination, securing a hard-fought 10-8 victory over Fiji in the tournament’s final game.
This remarkable accomplishment was built on the back of a strong overall performance. In their first match, the Spanish team delivered an overwhelming 83-0 victory over Madagascar, showcasing their dominance with 13 tries. In their second game, they faced a tougher challenge against the Netherlands but managed a 20-0 win, solidifying their position at the top of the table. Despite a slow start, with a narrow 3-0 lead at halftime, Spain’s resilience paid off as they broke through the Dutch defense three times in the second half, demonstrating their superior physical and tactical preparation.
In their final match against Fiji, Las Leonas proved their defensive strength. Despite Fiji’s greater possession and dominance in scrums, Spain’s defensive organization kept their opponents from capitalizing on these advantages. When Spain entered Fiji’s 22-meter zone, they patiently worked their way to score. A slim 7-3 lead at halftime extended into a well-managed second half, where Fiji’s late try and missed conversion sealed Spain’s 10-8 victory. This win not only secured their World Cup qualification but also placed them in first position in the tournament standings.
While Spain’s qualification was aided by favorable results in other matches and the expansion of the World Cup from 12 to 16 teams, there is no denying that Las Leonas earned their place through consistent and determined performances. Their triumphs in Dubai serve as a beacon of hope for Spanish rugby, a sport that has long struggled for recognition on the international stage. As they prepare for the 2025 World Cup, Las Leonas have shown that they are ready to compete against the best teams in the world, marking a new chapter for the sport in Spain.