Scotland’s progress through this Women’s Rugby World Cup has already rewritten expectations. Two pool victories have booked their first quarter-final since 2002, but the real test arrives on Saturday in Exeter: a showdown with Canada, ranked second in the world and unbeaten in seven Tests this year.

On paper, the task looks formidable. Canada’s dominance in this tournament has been emphatic – a 65-7 demolition of Fiji followed by a 42-0 dismantling of Wales. Their pedigree is deep: 21 players from the 2022 squad are back, alongside Olympians and seasoned Test veterans. Head coach Kévin Rouet’s side combine set-piece strength with a backline that thrives on space and tempo.

And yet, Scotland approach this clash with belief. Captain Rachel Malcolm summed it up: “As Scots, we love that underdog mentality.”

Scotland’s Evolution

What makes this different from past encounters is Scotland’s growth. Under Bryan Easson, the team have discovered the composure to close out tight matches and the cutting edge to convert chances. Francesca McGhie’s hat-trick against Wales lit up the tournament, Emma Orr added a solo gem against Fiji, and Evie Gallagher has underpinned the side with relentless work at the breakdown.

Scotland’s physical edge is borne out by the numbers – leading the competition in dominant carry rate – while Gallagher’s defensive workload has been among the highest recorded in a single match. In short, this is a side that no longer looks happy to “compete”; it now expects to win.

History Versus Opportunity

The historical record leans heavily Canada’s way. Scotland haven’t beaten them since their very first meeting in 1994, with the most recent clash in 2018 decided by just three points. The gulf once looked unbridgeable; now it feels like a crack that could be forced open.

Both teams are clear on what’s at stake. Victory means avoiding tournament hosts England in the quarter-finals – a reward both sides desperately want. Defeat would set up the kind of clash that usually ends campaigns.

Battle Lines

The match is likely to hinge on three areas:

  • Set-piece power: Canada’s scrum is widely regarded as one of the best in the world. Scotland’s pack must meet that head-on.
  • Breakdown discipline: Gallagher and co will need to slow Canadian ball, while avoiding the penalties that give their opponents momentum.
  • Clinical finishing: With limited chances expected, conversion rate will be decisive.

For Scotland, this isn’t just about points on a scoreboard; it’s about putting down a marker that they belong among the world’s best. For Canada, it’s a chance to reinforce their credentials as a genuine contender to England and New Zealand.

The Verdict

Canada enter as firm favourites, armed with depth, experience, and momentum. But Scotland’s rise, their refusal to accept past limitations, and the spark of players like McGhie make this more than a formality.

Whatever the result, Saturday at Sandy Park feels like a defining moment – either another step in Canada’s march towards the title, or the day Scotland finally rewrote the script.

Women’s Rugby World Cup, Pool B

Canada v Scotland – Sandy Park, Exeter

Saturday, 6 September, 12:00 BST

Live on BBC Two, BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport website and app