Canada have advanced to the 2025 Rugby World Cup Final after a historic semi-final performance over defending champions, New Zealand. Thanks to a four-try first half and the impressively disciplined Canadian side, the Black Fern's second half comeback attempt was warded off. Canada prevailed 34-19 to return to the Final for the first time since 2014 – where they faced and fell to next weekend's opposition, England. The victory also recorded the largest margin of victory against New Zealand in men’s or women’s Rugby World Cup history.
"We've defied the odds over and over again and that has a way of bringing you together, propelling you forward and fostering that knowledge in the group that we can overcome anything," said Canada Lock and standout Sophie de Goede. "I think you saw that today against the six-time champion Black Ferns team and I am very proud that we were able to do that. The defensive focus was huge this week. Our attack has been firing all tournament so we put trust in our ability to fire in attack, but we knew we needed to do a big job on defense, keeping getting out and putting pressure on them and I think that's why you saw that result."
In a battle between world No.1 and No.2, Canada will face England at-home in front of a sold-out Allianz Stadium on Saturday, September 27. Find out where to watch here.
