RWC 2023: Uruguay qualify, while Canada miss out
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Uruguay have qualified for the 2023 Rugby World Cup after downing the United States 34-15 while Canada will miss the tournament for the first time after a historic loss to Chile.
Uruguay overturned a 19-16 loss to the US in Colorado last weekend to win comfortably in Montevideo and advance on aggregate 50-34.
The Teros will appear in their fifth Rugby World Cup, joining tournament hosts France, New Zealand, Italy and an African side to be determined in Pool A.
The US will face Chile next year for the right to go to the World Cup as the Americas 2 qualifier in Pool D.
Chile defeated Canada for the first time 33-24 in Valparaiso, after blowing a win a week ago in Langford.
There, Chile conceded a penalty with 30 seconds to go and Canada escaped as 22-21 winners.
Santiago Videla scored a try and kicked 18 points on Saturday for Chile to progress 54-46 on aggregate, with an eye on their first World Cup appearance.
“Fair play to South American rugby. They’ve really invested and they’re going in the right direction,” Canada coach Kingsley Jones said.
“We’re getting caught up. I’ve made that point before and I don’t think anyone can deny that when you watch the way Chile played.
“The competition for World Cup spots has become very very competitive and we’ve missed out.”
