Bristol, September 20(HS): Canada produced one of the greatest upsets in Women’s Rugby World Cup history, demolishing reigning champions New Zealand 34-19 in a pulsating semifinal at Ashton Gate on Friday, to storm into their first-ever final. The result ended the Black Ferns’ 11-year unbeaten streak at the tournament and sent shockwaves through the rugby world.
The Canadians, who famously crowdfunded over $1 million to fund their World Cup campaign, stunned the six-time champions with a blistering first-half display, racing to a commanding 24-7 lead at the interval. Led by captain Sophie de Goede’s exceptional all-round performance, Canada’s relentless pace and physicality overwhelmed New Zealand, who had not lost a World Cup match since 2014.
First-Half Brilliance Sets the Tone
Canada’s intent was evident from the opening minutes. Hooker Anaïs Pelletier powered over for the first try in the 5th minute, before wing Sabrina Hogan-Rochester followed up just six minutes later. Lock Courtney Symonds added a third try in the 24th minute as the Canadian pack dominated both territory and possession.
Captain Sophie de Goede then capped off the half with a try in the 35th minute, adding to her earlier conversion points, giving Canada a stunning 24-7 lead at halftime. New Zealand’s only response came through prop Chryss Viliko Kalounivale, who crossed in the 26th minute to briefly rally the champions.
New Zealand Fight Back, But Canada Crushes Resistance
The Black Ferns struck twice after the break through Maiakawanakaulani Mikaele-Tu’u (56’) and Sylvia Sorensen-McGee (65’) to reduce the gap, but each time Canada had an answer. Fly-half Justine Tessier’s try in the 43rd minute, combined with de Goede’s flawless kicking display, kept the Canadians firmly in control of the scoreboard.
De Goede finished the night with a tally of 19 points — a try, three conversions, and a late penalty — underscoring her status as one of the stars of this World Cup.
“Tectonic” Moment for Women’s Rugby
The result is being described by rugby commentators as “tectonic” for the women’s game. BBC pundit Philippa Tuttiett hailed Canada’s performance as “the most complete display ever produced by this team,” while former Black Ferns star Ruby Tui admitted the defeat was “a bitter pill” for the champions to swallow.
Canada’s victory is particularly significant given the team’s financial struggles in the build-up to the tournament, forcing players and staff to raise funds through crowdfunding initiatives. Now, they have silenced critics and written themselves into sporting folklore.
What Lies Ahead
Canada will now prepare to face either England or France, who meet in Bristol in the second semifinal on Saturday. England, unbeaten in the tournament, are strong favorites, but France have a history of spoiling English campaigns.
For New Zealand, the outcome marks the end of a dynasty. Having lifted six of the last seven World Cups, the Black Ferns will now regroup for the third-place playoff.
As fans in Bristol rose for a standing ovation after the final whistle, it was clear that Canadian women’s rugby had arrived on the world stage. In the words of one jubilant Canadian supporter, “This is not just a win — this is history.”
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
