Canada Claims Women's Rugby World Cup Final Spot after Defeating Black Ferns in Clinical Performance
Canada Stuns Rugby World with Semi-Final News Over New Zealand
Canada has made history in the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup, defeating defending champions New Zealand in a thrilling semi-final news match at Ashton Gate. The Canadians secured a 34-19 victory, setting up an exciting final against England.
The match, played before a near-capacity crowd, was a tense affair from the start. The weather conditions were ideal, with clear skies and no rain all day. Canada, who are semi-professional and crowdfunded their preparations for the tournament, went in as underdogs but showed no signs of it.
Canada's trust in each other with front-foot ball allowed them to play with freedom, downing New Zealand and setting up a final against England or France. Each of Canada's tries came after a penalty kick to the corner and a rolling maul, with 15 phases of play. The first news of the match was scored by Canada, with Alex Tessier collecting a chipped kick and Justine Pelletier evading defenders to dive over.
The Black Ferns struck back with tries from Liana Mikaele-Tu'u and Braxton Sorensen-McGee, but it was not enough to overcome Canada. Sophie de Goede excelled in the match for Canada, playing a crucial role in breakdown turnovers, conversions, and splicing through defense. She scored two tries for Canada, with Florence Symonds and Asia Hogan-Rochester also crossing the try line.
New Zealand potentially had a chance to come back, with Tanya Kalounivale scoring a try and Jorja Miller's injury being felt on the field. However, a forward pass and a dropped ball thwarted any comeback attempts, and a De Goede penalty snuffed out any remaining hopes.
This is the first time since 2014 that New Zealand will not be in the final of the Rugby World Cup. Canada, who are no longer likely to be given the underdog title after their performance, may face England in the final. If they play like they did in the semi-final news, they could have a huge upset on their hands and win the tournament for the first time.
The final will be a highly anticipated match, with both teams showcasing their skills and determination in the semi-finals. Canada's victory over New Zealand was a surprise to many, and the team's performance has left fans excited for what's to come in the final.
