New Zealand clinched gold in a dramatic final of the women’s rugby sevens competition at the Paris 2024 Olympics, overcoming a determined Canadian team in an intense match. This victory not only marked a successful conclusion to the careers of rugby legends Portia Woodman-Wickliffe and Tyla King but also electrified rugby fans around the world.
In the lead-up to the final, New Zealand was the favourite, with odds of around 1/2, reflecting their strong form and past successes. Canada, on the other hand, had longer odds of approximately 3/1, highlighting their status as the underdogs. The fluctuating odds throughout the tournament provided ample opportunities for sports bettors to place strategic bets, reflecting the unpredictable nature of high-stakes rugby sevens. The high excitement of such matches often leads to increased betting activity, with fans keenly following odds and making bets as the tournament progresses. While some fans are able to bet in person, most opt to wager online, finding reputable and safe betting sites, like those in this list, which author and betting expert Ian Bruce explains are registered and licensed by the UKGC and offer a safe experience plus unique bonuses and promotions.
The final, held at the packed Stade de France, saw New Zealand start with a bang as co-captain Risi Pouri-Lane sprinted 50 metres to score under the posts. This early lead showcased New Zealand’s aggressive play and set the tone for the match. Despite New Zealand’s early dominance, Canada managed to fight back. After Portia Woodman-Wickliffe was temporarily sidelined for a high tackle, Chloe Daniels seized the opportunity to equalise for Canada. Daniels’s try was a testament to Canada’s resilience and ability to capitalise on moments of advantage.
Following Woodman-Wickliffe’s return, Alysha Corrigan intercepted a loose pass from New Zealand to give Canada a halftime lead. This turn of events was pivotal, as it demonstrated Canada’s tenacity and tactical awareness. However, New Zealand quickly regained control. Michaela Blyde made a remarkable run, weaving through Canadian defenders to score after a quick tap from Jorja Miller. Blyde’s try was a crucial moment that shifted the momentum back in favour of New Zealand.
Sarah Hirini, who had returned to the squad after a serious knee injury sustained during the opening SVNS series tournament in Dubai, played a key role in extending New Zealand’s lead. Hirini’s experience and determination were evident as she assisted Stacey Waaka in securing a seven-point lead. The final minutes saw Canada pushing hard, but New Zealand’s defence held firm, ensuring a 19-12 victory and securing their place at the top of the podium.
In a thrilling bronze medal match, USA’s Alex Sedrick scored a dramatic length-of-the-pitch try in the final moments to secure a 14-12 victory over Australia. This last-minute score capped off an action-packed game that saw Australia’s Maddison Levi score two tries, levelling her with Portia Woodman-Wickliffe’s Olympic try record. Before the match, the USA had odds of around 5/2 for claiming the bronze, while Australia was favoured with odds of 4/7. The fluctuating odds highlighted the unpredictable nature of the match, adding an extra layer of excitement for bettors visiting online gambling sites and in-person sportsbooks.
USA’s Alev Kelter kept her team in contention with a powerful run, while Kayla Canett nearly put them ahead if not for a crucial tackle by Faith Nathan. Australia struggled to break down the resilient USA defence until Teagan Levi’s try seemed to secure bronze for Australia. However, Sedrick’s stunning 90-metre run stole the show, ensuring USA’s place on the podium and thrilling fans who had bet on their success.
In the semi-finals, New Zealand extended their unbeaten streak against the USA to 11 matches with a solid second-half performance. Despite a sluggish start, New Zealand fell behind early due to a strong US defence and a powerful run by Kelter. However, Stacey Waaka’s tries and Michaela Blyde’s speed turned the tide, securing New Zealand’s spot in the final. The odds reflected New Zealand’s strength, with their fractional odds of 1/4 for reaching the final showcasing their dominant position in the competition.
Canada delivered the shock of the tournament by defeating Australia in the semi-finals. Australia, the tournament favourites, started strong but was outplayed by Canada. Charity Williams’s impressive 75-metre solo try before halftime gave Canada hope, which they carried into the second half. Asia Hogan-Rochester and Piper Logan scored crucial tries to ensure Canada’s victory and a place in the final. This result defied the odds, with Canada’s longer odds of 7/2 reflecting their underdog status and creating significant betting opportunities.
The Paris 2024 Olympics have not only showcased the high level of competition in rugby sevens but also demonstrated the growing interest and engagement of fans through sports betting. As the excitement of the tournament continues to resonate, fans and bettors alike will look forward to future events, driven by the thrilling performances and the ever-evolving odds that make rugby sevens a captivating sport to follow.