Back in March, Rugby Canada asked the community to get behind a big idea: Mission MWRWC. The goal was simple and brave—go win the Women’s Rugby World Cup. Fast-forward to Bristol, England and that belief showed up in a huge way. Canada beat six-time champions New Zealand 34–19 and now sit 80 minutes from history!
It wasn’t just the scoreline that impressed. You could see steady hand of captain Sophie de Goede guiding the group and the win felt like the product of months of work, planning and determination. Many consider this the biggest win in Canadian women’s rugby.
Next up is the final against England (Saturday 27th Sept at Twickenham). The hosts have been strong all tournament and the stage couldn’t be bigger. Canada know what’s in front of them, and they’ve earned the right to take that shot. Canada entered the tournament ranked No. 2 and now have a shot at the top spot.
This is Canada’s second trip to the finals of the Women’s Rugby World Cup – and it was England that defeated them, 21-9, in France in 2014. In Canada’s corner, is de Goede, whose return from an injury has provided a major boost to the team lineup. De Goede, 26, is one of three finalists for the Women’s World Rugby Player of the Year award, which will be awarded on Saturday.
From all of us at SportLoMo: congratulations to the players, coaches, staff and supporters.