But the real story of Pool A was France. After a narrow 15-12 loss to South Africa in their opener, they unleashed a dominant performance in their remaining matches. South Africa’s win came down to Christie Grobbelaar’s second-half try, with Antoine Zeghdar’s late effort falling short. That result left France needing a response - and they delivered. Against Argentina, Jordan Sepho’s early try set the tone for a clinical 59-7 dismantling, with seven different players crossing the line.
The pool concluded with a rematch of the Paris Olympics final as France faced Fiji. This time, it wasn’t close. France carried their momentum, building an unassailable lead and sealing a 24-19 victory despite Apete Narogo’s late consolation try for Fiji. South Africa and Argentina, meanwhile, were relegated to Sunday’s minor play-offs, with Argentina salvaging some pride in a narrow win over the Blitzboks.
Pool B: New Zealand Shows Why They’re Champions
While France cruised through their pool with dominance, New Zealand took a different approach - showcasing composure and game management under pressure. They emerged unbeaten, but every win was hard-fought.
Their campaign began with a 21-7 win over Great Britain, with Sione Molia’s late try securing a victory that was closer than the score suggested. Australia, meanwhile, made an early statement with a 14-7 win over Spain, thanks to strong performances from Dietrich Roache and Wallace Sititi. This set up a must-watch clash between Australia and New Zealand.
That match delivered everything fans love about sevens. New Zealand raced to a 21-0 lead before Australia stormed back, nearly completing the comeback until Kele Lasaqa held Ben Dalton up over the line in the dying moments to preserve a 21-17 win. Australia’s day got worse with a 14-10 loss to an inspired Great Britain side, whose captain Damian Hoyland praised the team’s effort and heart after the upset victory.
New Zealand rounded off their pool stage with a 24-7 win over Spain, with Frank Vaenuku scoring twice. The final match of Pool B saw Australia edge Great Britain 26-17 in a must-win game, surviving a spirited comeback to secure their place in the semis.
The Road Ahead: Semifinals Preview
France’s encounter with Australia promises a clash of styles. France has rediscovered the fluidity and creativity that took them to Olympic gold, while Australia’s grit and defensive discipline will be key to disrupting their rhythm.
Meanwhile, New Zealand versus Fiji is a heavyweight showdown between two sides who know each other well. Fiji’s inconsistency in the pool phase will be a concern, but they’ve built a legacy on stepping up when it matters most.
Dubai has once again delivered as the ideal start to the HSBC SVNS season - where reputations are forged, new talent emerges, and contenders stake their claim. Sunday’s knockout rounds will separate those ready to dominate the season from those who fall short.
For New Zealand and France, the message is simple: when skill and form align, opponents will need more than just determination to stand a chance.
Bring on the semis.