Australia’s Wallaroos are preparing for the biggest match in their recent history as they face world number two Canada in a do-or-die Women’s Rugby World Cup quarterfinal at Bristol’s Ashton Gate Stadium.
The clash, kicking off at 1:00 am AEST on Sunday, represents more than just a quarterfinal berth. It’s Australia’s chance to achieve something they’ve never done before – defeat Canada in international rugby.
The Stakes Couldn’t Be Higher
The Australians are at double-digit odds to upset the world number two side, whom they have never beaten. Canada’s recent dominance over the Wallaroos was evident in their last meeting during the Pacific Four series in Brisbane, where Canada, ranked second in the world, won 45-7.
Head coach Jo Yapp has made strategic changes to her lineup, promoting Emily Chancellor and Cecilia Smith to the starting side. Yapp has made two changes to the 23 that were defeated by England last week, with hooker Katalina Amosa and lock Ashley Fernandez recalled to the side.
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The most experienced duo in Wallaroos history, Ashley Marsters and Trilleen Pomare, have been moved to the bench. Coach Jo Yapp has shifted the two most-capped players in Wallaroos history to the bench for this weekend’s quarter-final against Canada. Ashley Marsters and Trilleen Pomare will look to make a difference off the pine, with the duo boasting 86 Test caps between them.
Canada Arrives Unbeaten and Confident
Canada come into the quarter-final unbeaten at Rugby World Cup 2025, having dominated their pool stage opponents. Their standout performer has been fullback Julia Schell, who scored six (yes, six) tries in the opening game against Fiji.
Canadian coach Kevin Rouet has made his own adjustments, with three changes to his starting 15 for Saturday’s quarterfinal against the seventh-ranked. The changes include Courtney O’Donnell starting in the second row and Caroline Crossley slotting into the back row.
Canada captain Alex Tessier embraces the pressure, saying, “pressure is a privilege” ahead of the crucial encounter.
Wallaroos Captain Flips the Script
Despite being clear underdogs, Wallaroos captain Siokapesi Palu believes the pressure actually favours Australia. “The odds are against us this game, and you know the pressure then gets bounced back on Canada; it’s up to them to perform to what people are expecting of them“, she said.
This psychological approach could prove crucial in a knockout scenario where one mistake ends World Cup dreams.
Building Momentum from Pool Success
The Wallaroos qualified from Pool A after a mixed campaign. They opened with a record-breaking 73-0 victory over Samoa, their largest ever win at the World Cup, eclipsing the 62-0 win over South Africa in 2010. Winger Desiree Miller crossed for a hat-trick, the third Wallaroo in the history of the World Cup to achieve this honour.
However, they drew 31-31 with the USA before falling 47-7 to tournament hosts England in their final pool match.
Tournament Context and Prize Money
The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup has broken records for ticket sales with over 300,000 tickets sold across the tournament. The winner of the Canada-Australia clash will face either New Zealand or South Africa in the semifinals.
The tournament, being held across eight English stadiums, culminates at Twickenham on September 27. The tournament’s 10th edition starts in Sunderland on August 22 and concludes at Twickenham on September 27.
How to watch the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup quarterfinal in Australia
Australian fans can watch the match live and free on Channel 9 and Stan Sport. In Australia, every one of the Wallaroos’ matches in the tournament (including Canada v Australia in the early hours of Sunday morning) will be FREE to watch on the 9Now streaming service and 9Network TV channels.
Key Players to Watch
For Australia, veteran Georgina Friedrichs returns to partner Cecilia Smith in the centres, while captain Siokapesi Palu leads from the pack. The back three of Desiree Miller, Maya Stewart, and Caitlyn Halse will need to find space against Canada’s organised defence.
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Canada’s threats include the versatile Sophie de Goede, who provides power up front and goal-kicking ability, alongside the prolific Julia Schell at fullback.
Historical Significance
The Australia women’s national rugby union team, also known as the Wallaroos, has competed at Women’s Rugby World Cups since 1998, with their best result finishing in third place in 2010.
The team’s recent progress has been remarkable. The year culminated in the team’s first-ever major title, being crowned 2024 WXV 2 Champions after going undefeated in the tournament in South Africa.
Also Read: FIFA Introduces Demand-Driven Pricing, Sets $60 Base for 2026 World Cup Tickets
The Verdict
Sunday’s quarterfinal represents a defining moment for Australian women’s rugby. While Canada enters as overwhelming favourites, the Wallaroos have shown they can rise to big occasions.
With history beckoning and a nation watching, the stage is set for what could be the most significant result in Wallaroos rugby history.
