The Women's Rugby World Cup delivered a breathtaking spectacle of high stakes and raw emotion on Saturday, as the final round of Pool B matches decided which teams would keep their championship dreams alive.
In a day of immense tension, Canada emerged as pool champions, sealing their fate with a commanding 36-10 victory over a resilient Welsh side in Sunderland. The Canucks' powerful performance, featuring a decisive try from Sophie de Goede, cemented their status as serious title contenders.
Meanwhile, in a nerve-shredding parallel clash, Scotland carved out a hard-fought 15-10 win against Fiji. This result triggered a complex three-way tie on log points between Scotland, Wales, and Fiji, sending fans and players alike into a suspense-filled wait as tournament officials crunched the numbers to determine the final standings.
The Agony and the Ecstasy
The mathematical calculations ultimately delivered heartbreak for Fiji. Despite their immense passion and a tournament that captured hearts, they became the unlucky team to be eliminated on points difference. The final standings confirmed Canada as pool winners (14 points), with Scotland (9 points) and Wales (9 points) progressing to the last eight based on superior points difference.
The outcome was particularly cruel for the Fijiana, whose journey ends here, while Wales and Scotland live to fight another day.
What Happens Next?
The quarter-final picture is now set. Canada's reward for topping the pool is a clash against France. Wales will face the daunting challenge of taking on the mighty Black Ferns of New Zealand, while Scotland are set for a showdown with the tournament hosts, England.
The drama in Sunderland has set the stage for a blockbuster knockout phase, proving once again that the Women's Rugby World Cup is a pinnacle of sporting excitement and unpredictability.
