(Sports Correspondent: ImranSohail)
New Zealand Crush France to Secure Women’s Rugby World Cup Third Place
Twickenham, UK — New Zealand wrapped up their Women’s Rugby World Cup campaign in style, defeating France 42-26 in the third-place play-off. The Black Ferns, six-time world champions, delivered a powerful performance to claim the bronze medal after their semi-final heartbreak against Canada.
Match Highlights
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Halftime Lead: New Zealand recovered from conceding an early try to dominate the first half, going into the break 26-7 ahead.
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Star Performer: Rising star Braxton Sorensen-McGee, just 18 years old, crossed for two second-half tries, finishing the tournament with a record 11 tries – the top scorer of the competition.
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Other Scorers: Ruahei Demant, Sylvia Brunt, Chelsea Holmes, and Maama Bayfield also dotted down, while Holmes added three conversions and two penalties.
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France’s Fightback: France scored three late tries through Bourdon, Champon, Vernier, and Boulard to narrow the margin, but the result was already sealed.
Emotional Farewell for Portia Woodman-Wickliffe
Legendary winger Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, New Zealand’s record try-scorer, received a standing ovation when substituted in the 57th minute. The 34-year-old, who came out of retirement for this tournament, was visibly emotional as fans saluted her remarkable career.
Captain’s Reaction
Black Ferns skipper Ruahei Demant praised both sides:
“I’m proud of us and of the French, for the heart, passion, and pride we played with today. This tournament has been incredible — credit to England for hosting.”
France’s Struggles Continue
For France, it was yet another third-place finish — their seventh in a row. After losing their semi-final 35-17 to England, Les Bleues again fell short of reaching the final, but showed resilience with their late rally.
