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RUGBY WORLD CUP

Canada qualify for the 2019 Rugby World Cup

The North Americans secured the final place at next year’s competition after beating Hong Kong 27-10.

Canadian team players celebrate after their victory in 2019 Japan Rugby Union World Cup qualifying match between Hong Kong and Canada at The Delort Stadium in Marseille, southern France on November 23, 2018. (Photo by Boris HORVAT / AFP)
BORIS HORVATAFP

Canada booked their ticket to the 2019 Rugby World Cup with a 27-10 win over Hong Kong in Marseille on Friday, claiming the 20th and final berth at the tournament in Japan.

This means that the Canucks have now reached their ninth consecutive World Cup, and are one of the countries that have reached every single edition of the competition.

In Friday's match, Glasgow Warriors winger DTH van der Merwe scored two tries for the North Americans while veteran hooker Ray Barkwill also crossed.

Canada "over the moon", says skipper Mack

"We're over the moon, coming into the tournament we knew it was going to be tough, but with all the support from home and the work that has been put into this, it's awesome," Canada captain Phil Mack said at the post-match presentation.

"We came here with a goal in mind, but now the hard work really starts. We are going to enjoy this moment and then hit the afterburners and build to the World Cup."

Canada finished the qualification with tournament with three wins and 14 points, ahead of Germany (nine points), Hong Kong (five) and Kenya (zero).

Canadians in group with Kiwis and Springboks

The Canucks will go into pool B of the World Cup alongside New Zealand, South Africa, Italy and Namibia.

2019 World Cup pools

Pool A: Ireland, Scotland, Japan, Russia, Samoa

Pool B: New Zealand, South Africa, Italy, Namibia, Canada

Pool C: England, France, Argentina, United States, Tonga

Pool D: Australia, Wales, Georgia, Fiji, Uruguay