Scotland Edges Wales in Cardiff Classic as Women's Six Nations Delivers Drama

The Principality Stadium in Cardiff has hosted countless memorable rugby moments, but this Saturday delivered something special for women's rugby as Scotland escaped with a pulsating victory over Wales in the tournament's opening round.

Wales had looked poised for their first Six Nations win since defeating Italy in 2024, having fought back from a 24-12 deficit to get within five points deep into stoppage time. As the clock pushed past the 80-minute mark, the home crowd roared their team forward from their own try line, demanding one final push. But a fumbled lineout dashed those hopes, and Scotland held on for a famous win that delighted their travelling support.

The match was everything the sport could have hoped for. Sensational tries, late drama, and a finish that kept viewers on the edge of their seats throughout. Wales head coach Sean Lynn was proud despite the heartbreak: "The fight and the character that those girls showed at the end, to be playing phase after phase from their own try line, is what we've been going after. For me it was a Test match, the improvement we've made from the World Cup to where we are now, you can clearly see it."

Scotland's new head coach Sione Fukofuka, who took charge in December, celebrated his first victory in charge. Fly-half Helen Nelson, named player of the match, said: "It's always tight against Wales but I'm just proud that we put in that full performance and managed to get the win. It's been a fast pre-season, we've had 12 days together, so we're just focusing on us."

Attendance at the national stadium reached 10,569 — a record for a fixture between the two nations on Welsh soil, though the venue's 78,000 capacity meant the intimacy of a packed stadium was missing. Wales's upcoming clash with France at Cardiff Arms Park is expected to draw a vociferous crowd, with two of three stands already sold out.

Elsewhere in round one, England set a new Women's Six Nations attendance record with 77,120 watching their 33-12 victory over Ireland at Twickenham. France currently sit top of the table on points difference after an impressive second-half display against Italy, and travel to face Wales in round two as clear favourites.

This weekend's rugby proved the women's game is delivering on its promise. Scotland and Wales served notice that the competition is fiercer than ever.