WATCH: Where it went wrong for Black Ferns
REACTION: New Zealand’s World Cup 2025 campaign came to a heartbreaking end, leaving the team gutted.
The Black Ferns, who have won six of the last seven World Cups, headed into their semifinal contest as favourites but suffered a 19-34 defeat to Canada on Friday..
They were on the back foot from kick-off, with Canada dominating proceedings.
The North Americans scored three tries within 23 minutes, before Tanya Kalounivale pulled one back for the Black Ferns in the 25th minute.
Despite a spirited effort to mount a second-half comeback, New Zealand were hampered by ill-discipline and handling errors.
Canada conceded just two penalties in the match, maintaining their composure throughout.
The defeat marked New Zealand’s third loss in a Women’s World Cup – and their first in a semifinal.
“I’m gutted,” Black Ferns co-captain Kennedy Tukuafu said after the match.
“This isn’t the way I envisioned our journey ending.
“Credit to Canada. They came out hissing in the first 20 minutes, and I guess we just left it a little bit too late.”
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Tukuafu acknowledged Canada’s dominance and pointed to execution as the team’s downfall.
“They are a well-drilled team. Our discipline wasn’t good enough and we just didn’t hold on to the ball long enough to be able to put points on.”
Head coach Allan Bunting echoed the captain’s sentiments, citing unforced errors and penalty concessions as key issues.
“They were accurate, and we probably made too many errors and conceded penalties. So just our discipline – that’s probably the real difference.
“But having said that, you can’t fault their intent and effort.
“Sport’s pretty tough sometimes. It can break your heart.”
The Black Ferns now turn their attention to the bronze medal match, where they will face either England or France.
Canada, meanwhile, await the winner of that semifinal in what promises to be a sold-out Final at Twickenham Stadium.
