Canadians are confident of dethroning New Zealand

Canada are full of belief they can end New Zealand's bid for a third successive Women’s Rugby World Cup title in the semifinals today, with France taking on England in the other last-four clash this weekend.

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The top four in the world rankings unsurprisingly make up the semifinal lineup in Bristol.

New Zealand have beaten England in five of the last six World Cup finals and haven’t lost a match in the tournament since 2014 - the year England last lifted the trophy by defeating Canada in the showpiece match in Paris.

But it is Canada, not New Zealand, who are second in the world rankings behind tournament favourites and hosts England.

Canada are also unbeaten in their last two games against the Black Ferns after a thrilling 27-27 draw during the Pacific Four series in Christchurch in April followed their 22-19 win at the same venue last year.

The North Americans, who have won plaudits for their quick handling play, have retained the same matchday 23 that hammered Australia 46-5 in the quarterfinals.