Women’s Rugby World Cup Semi-Final: Canada vs New Zealand
Venue: Ashton Gate, Bristol
Date: Friday, 19 September
Kick-off: 19:00 BST
Coverage: BBC Two, BBC Radio, BBC Sport website and app
A High-Stakes Clash in Bristol
Canada will take on defending champions New Zealand in the Women’s Rugby World Cup semi-final at Ashton Gate. The Black Ferns remain tournament favorites, but Canadian lock Sophie de Goede could be the player to tilt the balance with her unique skills.
Inspiration from a Rugby Great
In August 2000, Australian lock John Eales famously kicked a late penalty to defeat New Zealand and retain the Bledisloe Cup. Forwards rarely step into the role of match-winning kickers, yet Eales proved it could be done. Now, de Goede has the chance to follow a similar path in Bristol.
Sophie de Goede: Canada’s Goal-Kicking Forward
At 26, the Saracens forward has already impressed with 17 conversions in this year’s tournament — more than any other player. While goal-kicking is usually reserved for meticulous backs, de Goede’s early years as a fly-half shaped her into a forward with rare precision.
“I grew up playing fly-half because both my parents played rugby,” she explained. “Even when I moved to the forwards, I never gave up kicking because I love it. It’s something I find calming, and I enjoy practicing it.”
A Family Rooted in Rugby
De Goede’s rugby journey is also a family legacy. Her parents, Stephanie and Hans de Goede, both captained Canada at past Rugby World Cups. Following in their footsteps, she led Canada in the last tournament and continues to carry their leadership lessons.
“They never pressured me,” she said. “Instead, they let me discover my own path. Where they really influenced me was in leadership — teaching me how to work with teammates and grow as a person.”
Canada’s Hope Against the Black Ferns
Despite New Zealand’s dominance in women’s rugby, Canada enter the semi-final with belief. If de Goede’s leadership and accurate boot come into play, the Black Ferns could face their toughest challenge yet.