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 advancing to their second final in history. The semi-professional Canadian side, who crowdfunded their tournament preparations, dominated the defending champions with a masterclass of pace, patience and instinct.
Captain Alex Tessier and player of the match Justine Pelletier were among the try-scorers, with Sophie de Goede excelling across the pitch. Canada scored four tries through Pelletier, Asia Hogan-Rochester, Florence Symonds and Tessier, while De Goede added a penalty. New Zealand responded with tries from Tanya Kalounivale, Liana Mikaele-Tu’u and Braxton Sorensen-McGee, but could not overcome Canada’s relentless pressure.
This is the first time since 2014 that New Zealand will not feature in the final, and just their second semi-final loss in tournament history. Canada will face either England or France in the final next Saturday at Twickenham.
Canada coach Kévin Rouet praised his team’s confidence, saying: “The confidence in this team, we arrived at the game not being stressed by the event and not being stressed by playing the Black Ferns. That is a big gamechanger for us.”
New Zealand co-captain Kennedy Tukuafu was “gutted” after the defeat, while director of performance Allan Bunting acknowledged the pain of sport. The Black Ferns will play in the bronze medal match before the final.
