Canada and Australia have each secured Rio 2016 qualification spots in Amsterdam ©World Rugby

Canada's female rugby sevens team have become the first team in any sport from that country to seal qualification for next year's Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, while Australia will also be present next year after the opening day of the season-ending World Rugby Women's Sevens Series leg in Amsterdam.

On an entertaining day of action in the Dutch capital, already-qualified New Zealand also claimed the Women’s Sevens Series overall title for the third year in a row.

After a series of dominant performances in previous legs, to do that the sport's dominant team simply had to turn up in Amsterdam, but they finished the job with aplomb by scoring six tries in a clinical 32-0 win over Fiji in their opening match.

The gloss of this success was reduced however, as they were then hammered 34-5 by the United States in the biggest defeat they have ever suffered on the women's circuit. 

Lauren Doyle scored a hatrick and Kristen Thomas and Catherine Johnson also crossed the line to end a remarkable day for the US, which also included a 26-7 win over South Africa followed by a 36-14 victory over Fiji.

The Americans will now be rewarded for their acts with a quarter-final against fellow giant killers Spain, who enjoyed a shock win of their own over neighbours France.

Elliah Green pictured in action on an unbeaten day for Australia, which also guaranteed Olympic qualification ©World Rugby/Martin Seras Lima
Elliah Green pictured in action on an unbeaten day for Australia, which also guaranteed Olympic qualification ©World Rugby/Martin Seras Lima

Australia, who enjoyed an unbeaten opening day, will play Russia for a spot in the semi-finals, while England face a huge test if they are to secure the final Olympic slot as they have to play New Zealand.

England are locked in a battle with France - who play Canada in the final quarter-final - and the US for the final qualification spot.

"It's been hard work and a long process for us and to finally get to Rio and have our dreams become a reality," said Canadian captain Jen Kish following the sealing of their slot in Rio.

"It is a dream come true for us.

"We're going for a strong day two - we want to leave Amsterdam not only going to Rio, but to win the Cup as well."

Action is due to conclude in Amsterdam tomorrow.



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