Photograph: Canadian Press/Shutterstock

Red Roses’ unbeaten streak ends in a thriller with last-gasp try from Canada

England’s four-year, 41-game unbeaten streak in women’s rugby finally came to an end in a dramatic WXV match at BMO Field in Toronto. Canada secured a hard-fought 24-21 victory over the defending champions, marking England’s first defeat since the 2022 Women’s Rugby World Cup final.

The win was a statement of intent after Canada’s earlier 26-all draw in Exeter, where they had already disrupted England’s dominance. Midfielder Olivia Apps had previously signaled Canada’s determination to overcome England in 2026, and their persistence paid off with a late try sealing the upset.

The result underscores Canada’s rising competitiveness and England’s vulnerability after a prolonged unbeaten run.

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