World’s best set for Rugby World Cup Semi-finals

· ALLBLACKS.COM · World Rugby
New Zealand v South Africa Women's Rugby World Cup 2025 Quarter Final
The four highest-ranked teams in women’s rugby will contest the semi-finals of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, with England, Canada, New Zealand and France all advancing after a thrilling weekend of quarter-final action in Exeter and Bristol.

The Black Ferns continued their unbeaten run at the tournament with a commanding 46–17 victory over South Africa in Exeter, sealing their place in the last four. That result followed an impressive pool stage where they swept aside Spain (54–8), Japan (62–19) and Ireland (40–0) to top their group in style.

Their reward is a mouth-watering semi-final against Canada, ranked number two in the world. The Canadians have been in formidable form, overwhelming Fiji, Wales and Scotland in pool play before powering past Australia 46–5 in their quarter-final. The clash between New Zealand and Canada will take place at Ashton Gate in Bristol on Friday, 19 September, 7pm UK time (Saturday 20 September, 6am NZT).

On the other side of the draw, tournament hosts and world number one England will meet France in a blockbuster semi-final in Exeter on Saturday, 20 September, 3.30pm, UK time (Sunday, 21 September at 2.30am NZT). England have been relentless in front of home crowds, sweeping Pool A and then dispatching Scotland 40–8 in the quarter-finals. France, meanwhile, emerged unbeaten from a tough Pool D and edged out Ireland 18–13 in a tense quarter-final.

For the Black Ferns, the challenge ahead is clear. Canada have long been one of the most consistent forces in the women’s game and will provide a stern test on neutral ground. With a place in the Rugby World Cup final at stake, it promises to be a showcase of the very best in international rugby.

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