The Fiji Military Forces women’s team lost in the final minute of the 2025 International Defence Rugby Competition final, going down 14-12 to France this morning at Kingsholm Stadium.
A last-minute try from French winger Mélanie Bousquet snatched victory from a heartbroken Fiji side.
The 14-12 result means the French, who defended stoically throughout the game, retain the IDRC trophy they won in New Zealand in 2022.
It looked as though Fiji’s physical dominance would steer them to victory as they led heading into the final minute, but Bousquet’s moment of brilliance showcased the unpredictability of an incredible final.
In a fiercely contested match with brutal passages of play, two early penalties from France captain Mélissa Bergeron put the reigning champions in a strong position.
A third penalty from Bergeron extended the lead to 9-0, but Fiji responded with tries on either side of halftime.
Vitalina Mirini powered over just before the break, and Mereani Wakolo’s try minutes into the second half looked to be the decisive moment for the Fijians.
However, the French never gave up, and Bergeron’s clever kick found Bousquet, who dived over to seal another IDRC title for France.
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