There was lots of epic sporting action at the Women's Rugby World Cup over the weekend. Ireland took on Japan at Franklin's Gardens stadium in Northampton in front of lots of excited fans. Both teams fought hard for the win, but it was Ireland who secured victory. It was also their first World Cup game in eight years.

New Zealand began its defense of the Women’s Rugby World Cup by scratching a 54-8 win over Spain in York on Sunday.

Prospects: A team that should stay poised under pressure. Eleven players have more than 50 caps, led by back Sofia Stefan’s 98. Ten players are going to their third RWC. Keep an eye on center-wing Alyssa D’Inca, a threat since last year who scored four tries across the Azzurre’s warmup wins over Scotland and Japan.