Can Wales Triumph Against Canada with Nothing to Lose?

As Wales gears up to face Canada in their second match at the Women's Rugby World Cup 2025, the team is determined to turn around their fortunes after a disappointing start. With Kelsey Jones stating they have "nothing to lose," Wales aims to restore confidence and showcase their potential on a global stage.

Last updated: 30 August 2025 (BST)

Key Takeaways from Wales' World Cup Journey So Far

Wales suffered a heavy defeat against Scotland (38-8) in their opening match.
Kelsey Jones emphasised the importance of resilience and optimistically sees the upcoming match against Canada as a chance to redeem themselves.
Canada has established itself as a formidable opponent, having beaten Fiji 65-7 in their opening game.
Wales is focused on turning their performance around, hoping to inspire their fans and the next generation of rugby players.
The match against Canada will be critical for Wales' chances of advancing in the tournament.

Wales' Opening Match: A Disappointing Start

The Women's Rugby World Cup began on a sour note for Wales, who faced Scotland in their opening game. What was anticipated as a close contest turned into a significant defeat, with Wales conceding six tries. This performance has left the team under immense pressure as they prepare to face the highly-ranked Canadian side.

Kelsey Jones, who played as hooker, expressed her team's dismay at the result, stating, "Right now it's pure disappointment and frustration. We're absolutely gutted." The loss has highlighted areas for improvement, and Jones believes this setback can serve as a catalyst for the team to reflect and regroup.

Facing the Challenge of Canada

As Wales prepares to face Canada, the team acknowledges the significant challenge ahead. Canada, the second-best team in the world, showcased their prowess with a resounding victory over Fiji. The Welsh side understands the importance of this match; a win is crucial for their hopes of progressing to the quarter-finals.

"We have nothing to lose," Jones reiterated. "It's a great opportunity to step it up against Canada and then Fiji. You never know what can happen; I'm optimistic." This statement reflects a mindset shift where the team aims to approach the game without the burden of expectations, focusing instead on their capabilities and potential.

Adjustments and Strategies for Improvement

In light of their heavy defeat, Wales is actively working on several key areas to enhance their performance against Canada:

Defensive Solidity: Wales needs to tighten their defence to avoid conceding easy tries, a critical lesson learned from the Scotland match.
Physicality in Play: Jones mentioned the importance of being a hard team to beat. Therefore, they must match Canada's physicality to compete effectively.
Set-Piece Execution: Improving scrums and lineouts will be essential in gaining an upper hand in possession and territory.
Game Management: Wales must work on their decision-making under pressure to ensure they utilise scoring opportunities effectively.

Wales' Commitment to Their Fans

Despite the recent setback, Kelsey Jones has called for continued support from fans. "We love your support, we love inspiring that next generation," she said. The team's connection with their supporters is paramount, and they aim to make a comeback that not only improves their standing in the tournament but also inspires young players across Wales.

The Welsh squad is aware that their performance reflects on the entire nation, and they want to embody the pride and resilience associated with Welsh rugby. Jones' plea for fan attendance highlights the importance of support in sports, especially during challenging times.

The Importance of the Women's Rugby World Cup

The Women's Rugby World Cup is not just a tournament; it represents an opportunity for growth in women's sports. As more attention is drawn to women's rugby, the hope is that it will inspire future generations and encourage greater participation at all levels.

Wales' journey through this tournament will have a lasting impact, regardless of the outcomes. By competing on the world stage, they are paving the way for younger athletes and contributing to the ongoing evolution of women's rugby in the UK.

What Lies Ahead for Wales

Looking ahead, Wales must not only focus on the upcoming match against Canada but also on their subsequent game against Fiji. Each match is crucial for their aspirations and will require a blend of tactical acumen, physical resilience, and mental strength.

With the World Cup providing a platform for the players to showcase their skills, the Welsh team aims to bring their best performance to the pitch. "We'll just throw it all at Canada and see what we can do," Jones concluded, highlighting the spirit of determination that characterises Welsh rugby.

FAQs

What time is the Wales vs Canada match?

The match between Wales and Canada is scheduled for Saturday, 30 August at 12:00 BST.

Where can I watch the Wales vs Canada game?

Fans can watch the match live on BBC One, BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport website & app, Radio Wales, Radio Cymru, and BBC Sounds.

What does Wales need to do to have a chance against Canada?

Wales needs to improve their defensive strategies, match Canada's physicality, execute set-pieces effectively, and manage the game better to secure a win.

How did Wales perform in their opening match?

Wales suffered a significant defeat against Scotland, losing 38-8, which put pressure on them to perform against Canada.

What is Kelsey Jones's outlook for the upcoming matches?

Kelsey Jones remains optimistic, stating that Wales has "nothing to lose" and sees the matches as opportunities to redeem themselves.

As Wales faces a critical moment in their World Cup journey, the team's resilience and determination will be put to the test. The outcome of the matches ahead not only affects their tournament prospects but also the future of women's rugby in Wales. Will they rise to the challenge and inspire a new generation of players? #WalesRugby #WomensWorldCup #Rugby2025