The 2025 World Rugby U20 Championship has reached the semi-final stage, generating substantial excitement as four teams vie for a place in the final. The tournament is being held in Italy from June 29 to July 19, across the cities of Viadana, Calvisano, Verona, and Rovigo[4]. Defending champions England narrowly missed out on the semi-finals after Argentina secured a crucial four-try bonus point in a dramatic pool finale, despite losing heavily to France[1].
Argentina, known as Los Pumitas, earned their spot in the semi-finals with a bonus point in a 56-26 defeat against France[3]. Both France and Argentina came into their decisive pool match unbeaten, but France dominated early and never looked back. Despite the defeat, Argentina’s overall pool performance was enough to see them through to the next round, where they will face a powerful South Africa side on July 14 to determine who advances to the final[3].
South Africa, France, and New Zealand each topped their respective pools with three wins. South Africa, in particular, demonstrated their title credentials with a statement victory over Australia during the pool phase[1]. France will meet New Zealand in the other semi-final, renewing a fierce rivalry after New Zealand’s semi-final defeat to France in the previous edition of the championship[2]. The French side is aiming for their fifth consecutive final appearance, while New Zealand seeks redemption and a return to the top of age-grade rugby[1].
In other tournament highlights, Wales secured their first victory with a strong performance against Spain, and Italy has emerged as a potential history-maker, also on the verge of a major breakthrough[5]. All 276 players participating in the final round of pool matches wore distinctive shirts as a unified stance against doping, emphasizing the championship’s commitment to integrity and fair play[1].
England, the 2024 champions, exited at the pool stage, underlining the highly competitive nature of this year’s tournament[1]. The event features twelve teams: eleven based on their performance in 2024, plus Scotland, who earned promotion as the 2024 World Rugby U20 Trophy winners[4].