Canada Surprises: Women’s Rugby World Cup Final After Beating New Zealand

Canada Shocks the Rugby World and Advances to the Women’s World Cup Final

BRISTOL, England – Canada is no longer the surprise team. After an impressive demonstration in Bristol, the Canadian team, led by their coach Kévin Rouet, proved their worth on the court. The result was a historic victory over New Zealand, with a final score of 34-19, marking a milestone on their path to the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup final. Canada, currently ranked second in the world, has proven to be a formidable rival, accumulating three undefeated matches against New Zealand. Despite the reputation of the Black Ferns, who have won six of the last seven World Cups, Canada, with key figures like Sophie de Goede and Justine Pelletier, managed to impose their game.

PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty ImagesThe Canadian victory not only meant New Zealand’s biggest defeat in a World Cup match, but also the most points conceded by the Kiwis in the tournament and the most tries received. This achievement is even more remarkable considering that Canada resorted to crowdfunding to finance its participation in the World Cup, raising nearly 1 million Canadian dollars.

We have defied the odds time and again, and that unites us, drives us forward, and fosters within the group the knowledge that we can overcome anything.

Sophie de Goede

The match at Ashton Gate saw Canada dominate New Zealand from the first minutes, displaying a multifaceted game and taking advantage of every opportunity. The speed in the rucks and Pelletier’s skill were crucial, culminating in a strong score at halftime.

1:17Canada surprises New Zealand and reaches the final of the Rugby World CupDe Goede’s performance was exceptional, demonstrating her versatility in the game, from attack to defense. The Canadian team, however, proved to be more than just one player, and that is what worries the winner of the match between England and France.

Canada will face the winner of England and France in the Women’s Rugby World Cup final.Rouet expressed his satisfaction and motivation for the final, urging his team to stay focused. The team, led by Alysha Corrigan, has used its “underdog” status as fuel for its performance. Canada demonstrated its defensive strength, containing a New Zealand team that had outstanding players. Despite the Kiwis’ attempts to come back, Canada maintained its lead, securing its place in the final.

I was very proud of the girls for the effort. It was high intensity. That was our game plan, to put them under pressure. We did a good job at that and managed to recover the ball.

Tessier

Canada will now have an extra rest day before the final, preparing to face the winner of the match between England and France. The Canadian team, far from being a “dark horse”, has proven to be a real contender in this World Cup.