Published on, Sept. 1 -- September 1, 2025 12:29 AM

Ireland closed in on the Women's Rugby World Cup quarter-finals with a seven-try victory over Spain at Franklin's Gardens.

Only a bonus-point win for Japan over New Zealand on Sunday could now deny Ireland a place in the last eight with a round to spare.

Scott Bemand's side, who did qualify for the last World Cup in New Zealand, had their bonus-point wrapped up by half-time but were made to work for the win against a spirited Spanish side.

Anna McGann and Grace Moore both crossed twice for Ireland but Spain managed five scores of their own in a game the victors did not make safe until midway through the second half.

Despite their progression to the knockout phase for the first time ...