We are already in the second week of the WXV Global Series, and we can't contain our anticipation for what's to come in the second week of action as the Springbok Women, Wales, Italy, Japan, and Ireland step into the arena!
But before fans can feast on more tackles, incredible tries, spectacular plays, and mesmerising turnovers, here are some of this week's best social media spotlight moments!
Azzurre prepare welcome for Sakura Fifteen
Vittoria Vecchini and Alessandra Frangipani teamed up to welcome the Sakura Fifteen to Italy for one of the weekend's most anticipated clashes.
The two Italian forwards learned more than a few words in Japanese to greet their guests properly, in a demonstration of Italy's warm tradition of welcoming guests.
Arigatō, Azzurre!
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The ultimate team song
The Netherlands kicked off their campaign with a remarkable win over Samoa, and the celebrations didn't stop when the game ended.
With flanker Isa Prins leading the tuneful charge, the entire team raised their voices and performed a team song for all to hear. As they say, 'We are here to stay,' so be sure to tune in for the next two chapters of WXV Global Series Challenger 2026.
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The Eagles have landed in Ireland
Ireland and the USA will clash this weekend at Dublin's Tallaght Stadium, and fans will be on the edge of their seats to watch both teams go at it for the 12th time.
While Ireland have always managed to come out on top in past encounters, the prospect of a first-ever victory will fuel the Eagles' resolve to make something special happen on Sunday.
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La primera de muchas
Spain may not have got the desired result in their first WXV Global Series Challenger outing against Fiji last Sunday, but Las Leonas had to celebrate África Vílchez's first cap as a member of the pride.
The young prop always dreamt of representing her country, and in 2026 she made it all come true when she got to jump in to face Fijiana in the opening game of the competition in Hong Kong.
However, this is only the beginning, so be ready to earn more caps, África Vílchez.
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Mererangi Paul leads the Haka
Even before the Black Ferns beat France in Lyon, it was an unforgettable day for Mererangi Paul.
For the first time in her life, the winger led the pre-match Haka in front of more than 14,000 fans who flocked to the stands of Lyon's Matmut Stadium de Gerland. While time often causes memories to fade, this moment is unlikely to be forgotten, thanks to the passion, love, and devotion one of the Black Ferns' leaders invested in it.
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