Highlights: HSBC SVNS Dubai 2025 | Day 1

The opening day of the HSBC SVNS in Dubai saw New Zealand and France top their respective men’s pools, securing semi-final spots, while last season’s champions South Africa and League winners Argentina missed out.

Pool A Highlights: France Edges Through

France battled through a tough Pool A to claim the top spot. Their campaign included:

An initial 15-12 loss to South Africa.
A massive 59-7 victory over Argentina, condemning the League winners to minor play-offs.
A 24-19 win against Fiji in a repeat of the Paris Olympics final, which secured their semi-final berth.

The result meant both South Africa (last year’s Grand Final champions) and Argentina were eliminated from semi-final contention. France will face Australia in the final four.

Pool B Highlights: Unbeaten New Zealand

The All Blacks Sevens were the only men’s team to finish the day unbeaten, winning all three of their matches in Pool B:

They defeated an inexperienced Great Britain side 21-7.
A hard-fought 21-17 victory over Australia followed.
They finished the day with a comfortable 24-7 win against Spain.

New Zealand’s perfect run sets up a semi-final clash with Fiji. Australia secured the other semi-final spot from the pool with a 26-17 victory over Great Britain in their final game.

Semi-Finals Fixtures (Sunday):