By Toby Davis

BRISTOL, England (Reuters) – Canada lost their first 17 matches against New Zealand, but a psychological switch had flicked by the time they faced each other in the World Cup semi-final on Friday and they were mentally ready to do the business.

Kevin Rouet’s Canada side produced a stunning performance to clinch a 34-19 win over the Black Ferns and reach next Saturday’s final, running in five tries in a dominant display at Ashton Gate.

New Zealand were the double defending champions and had not lost a World Cup match in over a decade but Canada’s performance had all the hallmarks of a team who were far from awed by their opponents’ record.

The Black Ferns had failed to beat Rouet’s side in their last two meetings, losing in 2024 and drawing their last meeting in Christchur

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