Canada produced a stunning performance to defeat New Zealand 24-12 in the Rugby World Cup semi-final at Ashton Gate, ending the Black Ferns' reign as champions and securing their place in the final for only the second time. The semi-professional Canadian side, who crowdfunded their tournament preparations, dominated from the outset, playing with pace, patience and instinct to overwhelm the defending champions.
Captain Alex Tessier opened the scoring after collecting a chip kick, with Justine Pelletier evading defenders to dive over. Asia Hogan-Rochester and Florence Symonds added further tries as Canada converted penalties into points from lineout drives. Despite a brief fightback from New Zealand, including tries from Tanya Kalounivale, Liana Mikaele-Tu'u and Braxton Sorensen-McGee, Canada's Sophie de Goede was instrumental throughout, contributing a try and penalty to seal the win.
This defeat marks the first time since 2014 that New Zealand will not feature in the final, and their first tournament loss since Ireland beat them 11 years ago. Co-captain Kennedy Tukuafu said she was 'gutted', while director of performance Allan Bunting acknowledged the pain of the loss but emphasised the opportunity to play for bronze. Canada will face either England or France in the final next Saturday at Twickenham.
