Tomorrow, under the bright lights of Twickenham, Canada will walk onto the field for the Women’s Rugby World Cup final — a stage few outside their locker room believed they’d reach. Facing England, the undisputed favorites, Canada brings not just skill, but a story of perseverance, adversity, and heart.
For decades, Canadian women’s rugby has battled from the margins, surviving on limited infrastructure and inconsistent funding. Unlike England’s fully professional Red Roses, Canada’s players often balance jobs, studies, or overseas club contracts with their international commitments. Many wondered if this was the kind of gap that could never be closed. Yet here they are, one game from rewriting rugby history.
The journey to the final began with a spark in the group stages. A statement 65–7 victory over Fiji was followed by a ruthless shutout of Wales and a clinical takedown of Scotland. The message was clear: this Canadian side wasn’t just here to participate — it was here to contend.
Momentum carried them into the quarter-finals, where they dismantled Australia 46–5. That result caught the world’s attention, but it was the semifinal where Canada etched their names into history. Facing New Zealand, the reigning champions and sport’s gold standard, Canada unleashed a fearless performance, storming to a 34–19 victory. It was the Black Ferns’ first World Cup semifinal loss in over a decade, and proof that Canada belonged on the biggest stage.
At the center of this campaign is captain Sophie de Goede, a player who embodies versatility and grit. A scorer, kicker, defender, and leader, she sets the standard for her teammates. De Goede’s journey has not been easy — overcoming injury and doubt — but her relentless presence has become the glue that holds this squad together. Veterans like Karen Paquin and Tyson Beukeboom have brought valuable experience, while rising stars such as Asia Hogan-Rochester and Florence Symonds have infused the team with youthful energy and daring.
Head coach Kevin Rouet has never shied away from the underdog label. Instead, he has embraced it, rallying his squad around the belief that structure, discipline, and conviction can topple giants. “We are here to burst England’s aura,” he declared earlier this week, a sentiment that reflects both defiance and confidence.
England, riding a 32-match unbeaten streak, represents the steepest mountain Canada could possibly face. Their depth, professionalism, and consistency make them the favorites. Yet, in many ways, that burden of expectation lies entirely on England’s shoulders. For Canada, the pressure is already lifted: they’ve proven their worth, their resilience, and their ability to shock the rugby world.
Win or lose, this campaign has already shifted the conversation around Canadian rugby. From crowdfunding campaigns to cover travel and training, to players sharpening their craft in European leagues, this squad has shown what’s possible with belief and collective spirit. A title would change everything — not just for the players on the field, but for every young girl in Canada who dreams of pulling on the red jersey.
On Saturday, Canada steps into Twickenham not just as challengers, but as contenders. They’ve battled scarcity, toppled champions, and carried the weight of a nation’s belief. Now, they stand one match away from turning grit into glory.
