Champs New Zealand, Springboks into World Cup quarters

Reigning champions New Zealand reached the quarterfinals of the Women’s Rugby World Cup with a game to spare on Sunday as South Africa made it through to the knockout phase for the first time.

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Ireland and France also qualified as well, with the only quarterfinal spot still up for grabs in Pool A where Australia and the United States’ thrilling 31-31 draw on Saturday has left both countries battling to join tournament hosts and favourites England in the last eight.

New Zealand beat Japan by an ultimately convincing 62-19, a win that also ensured Ireland qualified from Pool C after a 43-27 victory over Spain earlier Sunday.

It was a similar story in Pool D, with South Africa’s hard-fought 29-24 win over Italy, their first over Le Azzurre, and France's 84-3 thrashing of newcomers Brazil deciding qualification.

The only remaining issue in both groups is the finishing order.

The Black Ferns’ win in Exeter proved a landmark occasion for Portia Woodman-Wickliffe who became the first player, man or woman, to score 50 Test tries for New Zealand.