Sports Take

First the matchup for the quarterfinal for Canada at the Rugby World Cup is set, second ranked Canada vs seventh ranked Australia is confirmed for September 13 at 9am MT after Canada defeated Scotland 40-19 and England defeat Australia 47-7. The Canadians did well to avoid England, and speaking far too soon (Australia is not an easy matchup) does set up a potential number one ranked vs number two ranked Finals, as England are on the other side of the bracket from Canada. Australia has been dominate through their first two matches in pool A that even with the 40 point loss, they remain +33 in point differential. In head to head matchups Canada holds a stranglehold over Australia winning all 7 matches so far, with the largest margin being 40 in 2017. Canada ranks first in tournament in offloads, runs, second in tries, points scored, conversions, and third in clean breaks. Australia ranks thirteenth in offloads, eighth in runs, fourth in tries, points scored, conversions, and seventh in clean breaks. If Canada can play the Canadian way, there should be no issues in moving on to the semi-finals and playing for a World Cup title.

On the other side of the ledger, Canada’s win in the opener of the Pacific Nations Cup over the US proved to be enough. USA fell to Japan 47-21, meaning that Canada has qualified for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. A massive accomplishment with still more to improve upon to bring the Men’s side back to a respectable level. Canada now faces Pacific powerhouse Fiji in the PNC semi-final on September 14, with a 3:35pm kickoff MT.

Congratulations to both squads for their achievements so far this season. Let’s Go Canada!