Canada Surprises and Goes to the Women's Rugby World Cup Final

Canada Destroys New Zealand and Advances to the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final

BRISTOL, England – Canada is no longer the surprise team. After a resounding victory against New Zealand, Canadian coach Kévin Rouet had expressed before the match: “We are Canada, nobody knows us, and we are happy with that!”. However, the four teams that Canada had defeated before the semi-finals of the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup already knew the Canadian power. Now, New Zealand also knows it, after suffering a historic defeat with a score of 34-19. Canada, currently ranked second in the world, proved its worth. This result extends their streak to three undefeated matches against New Zealand, a team that has won six of the last seven World Cups. The winning mentality of the Black Ferns is undeniable, but it was not enough against a Canada led by figures like Sophie de Goede and Justine Pelletier.

Canada Surprises and Goes to the Women's Rugby World Cup Final

PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty ImagesNew Zealand’s defeat was the heaviest in a World Cup match, with the most points conceded and the same number of tries received. This triumph comes after a campaign where Canada resorted to crowdfunding, raising nearly 1 million Canadian dollars, which allowed them to shine in the tournament.

“We have defied the odds time and again and that unites us, drives us forward and fosters in the group the awareness that we can overcome anything,” said De Goede.
Sophie de Goede

Canada demonstrated its superiority from the first minutes, with a multifaceted game that included the strategic use of the field, dominance in the breakdown, and amazing speed. Pelletier, with his skill, facilitated the game and scored the first try.

1:17Canada surprises New Zealand to reach the Rugby World Cup final. Canada reaches its second Women’s Rugby World Cup final after dethroning New Zealand with a 34-19 victory at Ashton Gate.Canada’s speed surpassed New Zealand’s, with Taylor Perry assisting Asia Hogan-Rochester for another try. At halftime, Canada had already scored four tries, including one by De Goede, who left the New Zealand defense behind. De Goede, with his ability to kick, attack, and defend, was a key figure. His performance in the second half, including Canada’s fifth try, was crucial in keeping New Zealand at bay. The victory, however, was a team effort. The result of this match could be a warning for England or France, who will face each other in the other semi-final.

Canada will face the winner of England and France in the Women’s Rugby World Cup final. Andrew Matthews/PA Images via Getty Images

“I felt a year and a half ago that we could do something and I am happy that we are one game away from achieving what we want,” said Rouet.
Kévin Rouet

Alysha Corrigan highlighted the team’s motivation, which is fueled by being underestimated. Canada’s victory demonstrates that they have always been real title contenders.

Despite praising their attack, it’s crucial to highlight the Canadian defense. New Zealand, with players like Portia Woodman-Wickliffe and Braxton Sorensen-McGee, couldn’t overcome Canada’s solidity. Jorja Miller’s absence in the breakdown was noticeable, but Canada stood firm, even when New Zealand tried to come back.

“I’m proud of the girls’ effort,” said captain Tessier. “It was high intensity. That was our game plan, to pressure them. We did a good job and managed to recover the ball.”
Tessier

Canada will have an extra day of rest before the final, where they will face the winner of England and France. They are no longer the surprise team; they have proven to be true contenders.