Kate rides a rugby rollercoaster: Royals join 82,000 fans at 'Fortress Twickenham' as England begin quest for World Cup glory against Fiji... but it was a tense night for the Duchess and Harry
- Thousands of supporters descended on Twickenham Stadium tonight for Rugby World Cup 2015 opening game
- They were treated to a spectacular opening ceremony, featuring fireworks, a giant rugby ball and special effects
- Duke of Cambridge and his particularly animated wife were among those who watched England triumph over Fiji
- They were joined at stadium by Prime Minister David Cameron and Mayor Boris Johnson, but not Jeremy Corbyn
- Prince Harry gave speech at ceremony, during which he said he hoped evening would inspire future generations
- Although England were made to work tirelessly against underdogs, they clinched 35-11 victory with a late flourish
Thousands of fans were on the edges of their seats at Twickenham tonight as they watched England triumph over Fiji in the 2015 Rugby World Cup.
And the Duchess of Cambridge was no different.
Dressed in a smart blue coat, the 33-year-old mother of two was remarkably animated as she watched the quadrennial tournament's opening game.
At one point, she leaned back against her husband – who was viewing the game through a pair of black-framed glasses – with her mouth wide open.
She later broke into a smile and applauded enthusiastically as England's Mike Brown scored the team's first try at Twickenham Stadium in London.
Although England were made to work tirelessly against the underdogs, they managed to clinch their 35-11 victory with a late flourish.
As the game finished, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were seen clapping joyfully - while Prince Harry got to his feet and punched the air.
Earlier in the night, the royals had been treated to a spectacular opening ceremony, featuring fireworks, a giant ball and stunning special effects.
During the ceremony, Harry had taken to the stage in front of fans dressed in colourful outfits and masks, and Prime Minister David Cameron.
Looking tense: Thousands of fans were on the edges of their seats at Twickenham tonight as they watched England triumph over Fiji in the 2015 Rugby World Cup. And the Duchess of Cambridge was no different. Above, Kate clenches her hands as she watches the action
Animated: Dressed in a smart blue coat, the mother of two was remarkably animated as she watched the quadrennial tournament's opening game. Above, the Duchess, who gave birth to her daughter in May, reacts to the game as she sits next to her more restrained husband
Cover up like the Duchess in a colour pop coat from Reiss
Reiss Autumn/Winter 2014 Emile sharply tailored coat
Sold out! Shop the current coat collection here
Rugby fans might be on the edge of their seats waiting for the World Cup to kick off, but here at Fashion Finder we're more interested in what the Duchess of Cambridge is wearing!
Yesterday saw Kate’s official return to duties after her maternity leave for which she sported a smart Ralph Lauren houndstooth shirt dress teamed with a Mulberry clutch and that much talked about fringe. Meanwhile today she opted for a more colorful look, wearing a blue coat from luxe high street label Reiss with a Beulah London scarf on hand in case she's cold.
Now that autumn is setting in, we’re starting to think about our seasonal wardrobe, and a new coat to keep us cozy through the chilly months is top of our list. So naturally we’re looking to our own reigning fashionista for some outerwear inspiration.
We love this coat on Kate - it's the perfect autumnal hue and a fresh alternative to ubiquitous black. Unfortunately it's from Reiss' AW14 collection so is no longer available to buy, but click (right) to shop the current collection. Or recreate the look with one of the picks from our edit below.
Getting involved: Kate leaned back against William and opened her mouth wide as she watched England take on Fiji at Twickenham
Happy: Kate was later seen smiling after England's Mike Brown scores the team's first try in the game, which kicked off the World Cup
Applause: The Duchess is pictured clapping soon after the game started at Twickenham Stadium, which can seat a staggering 82,000
Worried, Harry? And the Duchess was not the only one who looked tense during the game - Prince Harry also appeared affected (right)
Celebrations: As England clinched their 35-11 victory against Fiji, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (front row, third and fourth from right) were seen clapping joyfully - as Harry (far right) got to his feet and punched the air. England's coaches (in white) also stood up
Overjoyed: Harry looked less stressed after England trumped Fiji (left), while food writer Mary Berry (right) could not hide her delight
Success: England captain Chris Robshaw (centre) leaves the pitch after his team won the opening game of the 2015 Rugby World Cup
Good sports: Ben Youngs (front), 26, is congratulated by Fiji players after his team won the game in front of royalty and British politicians
Victorious: Robshaw (left) waves to the crowd as he and Brad Barritt celebrate their team's victory over Fiji following tonight's game
Battle: Robshaw runs at Sunia Koto of Fiji during tonight's World Cup game, which took place at England's home ground in Twickenham
Royal support: Earlier in the night, the royals had been treated to a spectacular opening ceremony, featuring fireworks, a giant ball and stunning special effects. Above, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge laugh as they watch the game kick off at Twickenham Stadium
In good spirits: Both Kate and her husband, who was dressed in a dark blue suit and a patterned tie, appeared to be in good spirits
Struggling to watch: The Duchess was seen covering her face with her hands, and touching her temples, during the tense sports game
Away from the kids: The Duke whispers in his wife's ear as they watch the opening ceremony. The couple's two children were at home
Speech: Shortly after 7pm, Prince Harry took to the stage, in front of fans dressed in colourful outfits, rugby-themed masks and bright face paint, and Prime Minister David Cameron. Above, the prince is pictured making his well-received speech next to the Webb Ellis Cup
Large audience: The prince told attendees: 'This evening marks the beginning of a celebration of rugby which I hope will inspire current players, those new to the game and future generations.' Above, Harry speaks alongside Chairman of World Rugby, Bernard Lapasset
Changing the game: Before the prince's speech, a video was played showing a group of young schoolboys playing football on a pitch at Rugby School in 1823. But as the game got underway, one youngster picked up the ball and started running with it in his arms (above)
Gardeners: Seconds later, the boy dashed by 'groundsmen' Harry (right) and former England rugby union star Jonny Wilkinson (left)
'That'll never take off': As the child ran past, the prince looked up and remarked: 'Don't worry Johnny, that'll never take off.' Harry's performance in the video comes three years after his grandmother appeared in a James Bond sketch at the London 2012 Olympics
Cheering their country: Prince Harry (right) stands up and claps as England score during the opening game of the 2015 Rugby World Cup
Discussing the game: The fifth in line to the throne is seen listening to World Rugby Chairman Bernard Lapasset (left) during the game
Prime Minister: David Cameron, left, who previously described the World Cup as a 'compelling spectacle', is pictured watching the game
Star appearances: TV presenters Ant & Dec (centre and second right) and Andi Peters (far left) were all smiles as England battled Fiji
Performance: English singer Laura Wright stunned viewers with her performance during the opening ceremony of the Rugby World Cup
Taking to the field: Laura was joined at the ceremony by word artist George The Poet (above), who also impressed attendees and viewers
Stunning:Throughout the Rugby World Cup opening ceremony tonight, the centre of the pitch was dominated by a giant rugby ball (pictured) Half-way through, however, 20 'giants of the game' took centre stage. Martin Johnson was the chosen English representative
The prince - honorary president of England Rugby 2015, the organising committee staging the tournament - told attendees and millions of viewers: 'This evening marks the beginning of a celebration of rugby which I hope will inspire current players, those new to the game and future generations.
'There will be moments in this World Cup which will live with us for the rest of our lives. Who could forget 1995 and President Mandela handing The Webb Ellis Cup to Francois Pienaar, or that Drop kick in 2003. To all the players, we congratulate you and wish you well for the Tournament.
'Your individual skill is to be celebrated, but I can think of no other sport where the success of the team is shouldered so equally by everyone.'
Dressed in a smart grey suit and light blue tie, he continued: 'Rugby has changed dramatically in my lifetime. But it remains a game founded on a code of values. Values which are as important today, both on and off the field of play, as they have ever been. Across the country, regardless of age, background or beliefs; this nation, which gave rugby to the world in 1823, will join together and celebrate the game like never before.
'In six weeks' time, one team will take its place in history. It's up to every one of us, to raise the roof on each match in this unforgettable journey.
'The players have earned it, the Nations deserve it and the fans expect it.'
Harry concluded: 'We're ready... Game on!'
Before the prince's speech, a video was played showing a group of young schoolboys playing football on a pitch at Rugby School in 1823.
But as the football match got underway, one boy picked up the ball and started running. Seconds later, he dashed by Harry and ex-England rugby union star Jonny Wilkinson, who were stood by a wall dressed as groundsmen. The prince looked up and said: 'Don't worry Jonny, that'll never take off.'
Having fun: Cameron laughs and applauds as he watches the game, which is currently being watched by millions of viewers globally
'The best ever': The Prime Minister (pictured clapping during the game alongside other attendees) said of the contest: 'The tournament promises to be the best ever and it will leave a lasting legacy for the sport in our country and around the world'
A break from politicis: He added: 'The whole country will join with the cities hosting games in England and Wales to offer the warmest of welcomes to visiting teams and fans.' Above, London Mayor Boris Johnson (centre) is also at Twickenham Stadium tonight
Whack: England's George Ford converts the ball during the 2015 Rugby World Cup, which kicked off at 8pm at Twickenham Stadium
Tackle: Akapusi Qera, the Fiji captain, is tackled by Tom Wood of England and Brad Barritt of England (behind) during tonight's match
First try: Mike Brown scores England's first try during the match, causing the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to break into applause
Delighted: Brown couldn't fail to hide his glee as he got to his feet (left) and hugged his teammates (right) after scoring the try
Spectacular: The ceremony (above) included amazing special effects, fireworks and even a musical performance from the Royal Marines
Tower of players: The boy who starred in the Rugby School video climbed up a tower of players before holding the Webb Ellis Cup aloft
Band: At half-time, England were ahead of Fiji at 18 (compared to 8). Above, the Royal Marines band performs at Twickenham Stadium
Stylish: Laura Wright wowed onlookers with her style and talent as she performed World In Union - the sport's official track - tonight
No stranger to a large crowd: And after becoming a favourite among the Twickenham crowd at England rugby matches, Laura (joined on stage by George the Poet, as a chorus of youngsters sings) has now trekked up and down the country to sing for cricket fans
Centre stage: A giant rugby ball took centre stage at the opening ceremony, which was watched in the stadium by a huge 82,000 people
Singing: Fans show their support and sing loudly during the Rugby World Cup 2015 match between England and Fiji at Twickenham
Royalty: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are pictured making their way to the stadium, where they were joined by Prince Harry
Harry's cameo performance in the video comes three years after his grandmother starred in a James Bond sketch at the London 2012 Olympics. The Queen, who appeared to skydive into the stadium alongside actor Daniel Craig, was later said to be 'delighted' by her role in Danny Boyle's production.
Throughout the Rugby World Cup opening ceremony tonight, the centre of the pitch was dominated by a giant rugby ball.
Half-way through, however, 20 'giants of the game' took centre stage. Martin Johnson was the chosen English representative.
The ceremony also saw Edward Anthony, the 14-year-old boy who was chosen to play Webb Ellis in the opening video, climb up a tower of rugby players and hold the tournament trophy aloft. And it included musical performances from the Royal Marines and soprano Laura Wright.
Wright, 25, who wowed fans with her performance of World In Union - the sport's official track - has become a star on the classical scene, having won a number of awards, including BBC’s Young Chorister Of The Year in 2005, and gained a first-class degree at the Royal College Of Music.
Dressed in a stylish gown with her hair in a wavy side-parting, the singer deftly flaunted her chest and shoulders as she sang. She had earlier taken to Twitter to wish England's rugby stars good luck, writing: 'Good luck Team England! Make us proud! #weartherose #committedtoengland #RWC2015'.
Earlier in the day, thousands of fans had converged on Twickenham stadium, with many dressed in England's home white shirt.
Supporters on both sides appeared to be in great spirits as they prepared to watch the game, which commenced the six-week home World Cup.
Preparing for battle: England supporters, dressed as Knights, roar alongside Fiji supporters dressed in grass skirts earlier in the day
Rivals: A Fiji supporter poses in a fighting position shortly before the game (left), while another man dons England-themed kit (right)
Fancy dress: Fans in rose headdresses are seen in great spirits as they prepare to watch England take on Fiji at Twickenham Stadium
Familiar face: Three men are pictured wearing masks depicting England captain Chris Robshaw's face outside the sporting arena
Anticipation: Three young women pose for the camera dressed in England-themed hats and tops, with flags painted on their cheeks
Colourful: A female fan dons a bird-shaped hat (left) while another supporter wears an elaborate costume featuring a feathery headdress
Ready for a fight: Two young fans sit in the stands as they wait for the start of the opening ceremony, which was attended by royalty
Mayor: London Mayor Boris Johnson (centre) is surrounded by fans wielding mobile phones as he heads to the stadium for the match
Rugby star: Former England rugby international Jonny Wilkinson (centre) carries the Webb Ellis Cup between crowds before the game
Big turnout: The first game of the sporting competition, which kicked off at 8pm in London, was preceded by an opening ceremony
The Prime Minister, who has described the World Cup as a 'compelling spectacle', was later seen arriving at the event. He previously said of the contest: 'The tournament promises to be the best ever and it will leave a lasting legacy for the sport in our country and around the world.
'The sporting drama of the coming weeks will inspire tens of thousands more people to pick up a rugby ball and play the game, and the RFU is investing millions more in clubs up and down the country, training more coaches, and reaching out to make sure rugby is played in more schools.
'The whole country will join with the cities hosting games in England and Wales to offer the warmest of welcomes to visiting teams and fans - and I wish all four Home Nations the very best of luck.'
London Mayor Boris Johnson was also spotted arriving at the stadium.
England's odds of winning the Rugby World Cup are 9/2. New Zealand, meanwhile. are the favourites to win, with much better odds of 6/5.
On Thursday night, Prince Harry had spoken about his love for rugby at a welcoming party for the 20 competing nations.
Packed: Fans take up an entire street as they make their way to the stadium ahead of the 2015 Rugby World Cup game in Twickenham
Knights: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry joined fans at the ceremony, which reflected England's renowned rugby heritage. Above, England rugby fans dressed as knights are pictured arriving at Twickenham Stadium ahead of tonight's game
Joyful: Stuart Lancaster's side defeated Fiji in the long-anticipated home game, which commenced the six-week home Rugby World Cup
Optimistic: A young boy gives a 'thumbs up' as he arrives at Twickenham Stadium, with an England flag painted on each of his cheeks
Enthusiastic: A man in a dragon outfit was among the thousands of supporters to have flocked to Twickeham Stadium to watch the game
Showing their support: A young woman sports England flags on her cheeks (left) while another beams in a rose headdress (right)
Refreshments: England fans dressed as knights share a joke as they queue for refreshments before the match at Twickenham Stadium
Excited: A fan with an England flag painted across his face has a drink at the stadium as he waits for the opening ceremony to kick off
Smiling: England's odds of winning the tournament are 9/2. Above, a woman smiles as an England flag is painted on her left cheek
Thumbs up: Prime Minister David Cameron said of the sporting competition: 'The tournament promises to be the best ever and it will leave a lasting legacy for the sport in our country and around the world'. Above, a fan dressed as a knight gives a 'thumbs up' with his son
Jolly: Three women beam as they pose for the camera inside Twickenham Stadium, where thousands of rugby union fans gathered
He said: 'As a passionate rugby fan, I will share in the rollercoaster of emotions with millions of other fans around the world between now and 31st October. It is this rollercoaster that makes sport - and especially rugby - so compelling.
'I have no doubt that all the highs and lows, the drama and tension, will create unforgettable memories.'
He added: 'I believe that this World Cup - more than any before - has the potential to grow the game, both at home and abroad, by inspiring children of all backgrounds, and encouraging men and women of all ages and abilities, to embrace rugby.'
The celebrations were held at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, which Cameron described as a 'splendid building'.
He joked: 'You can fit number 10 Downing Street in here about five times over', adding: 'I'm going to arrange a job swap one of these days.'
The Prime Minister also revealed that former England captain Martin Johnson had made a lasting impression when he earlier visited Downing Street, damaging a 200-year-old chair.
Cameron said he had offered Johnson an 'important seat' but when he sat back 'the thing snapped in two'. When Johnson asked if it was an 'old chair', the Prime Minister replied: 'Well it had been sat here for 200 years but I'm sure we can find another one.'
Contest: On Thursday night, Prince Harry spoke about his love for rugby. He said: 'As a passionate rugby fan, I will share in the rollercoaster of emotions with millions of other fans around the world between now and 31st October.' Above, more fans at the stadium
Arriving: A man carries his son on his shoulders as they arrive at the game (left), while a woman smiles as she holds an England flag (right)
Face paint: A young woman smiles for a close-up, with a red rose painted on her left cheek, as she waits for the rugby game to begin
Pose: Fijian fans pose ahead of the opening game of the Rugby World Cup, which was attended by British royalty and David Cameron
World Cup: Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn did not attend the opening ceremony and World Cup game at Twickenham Stadium (pictured)
Crowds: England rugby supporters are seen arriving at Twickenham Stadium this afternoon ahead of the long-awaited opening game
Busy: Pubs in the area were crowded prior to the ceremony and opening game, which was watched by millions of fans across the world
Stadium: Members of the Royal Family will be showing their support throughout the World Cup, with Prince Harry and the Princess Royal joining the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh at a Buckingham Palace reception in October for the competing nations and contest organisers
Training: Sam Burgess of England pass the ball during the England Captain's Run on the eve of the opening Rugby World Cup match
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn did not attend the opening ceremony. A Labour spokeswoman said: 'He is not going. He has pre-existing commitments.'
Members of the Royal Family will be showing their support throughout the World Cup, with Prince Harry and the Princess Royal set to join the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh at a Buckingham Palace reception in October for the competing nations and some of the tournament organisers.
Meanwhile, William will watch a number of matches with Kate in his role as vice royal patron of the Welsh Rugby Union.
And on Monday the Duke will attend the Welsh team's welcome ceremony at the Guildhall in London.
World Cup fans will be joined by the Princess Royal, patron of the Scottish Rugby Union, and her husband Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence at a number of matches.
Competing Commonwealth countries will receive support from other members of the R oyal family, including the Duke of Edinburgh, Princess Eugenie, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.
Earlier on Friday, World Rugby revealed that 2019 Rugby World Cup hosts Japan will qualify automatically.
Meanwhile, the final team to make the tournament will be decided by a new repechage competition.
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