Blitzboks triumph in thrilling finish to HSBC SVNS World Championship

The Springbok Sevens team delivered a spectacular crescendo to their season by clinching the HSBC SVNS World Championship in Los Angeles, defeating Spain 19-5 in a thrilling final that wrapped up a flawless weekend on the Californian shores.

This victory marked the Blitzboks’ second title of the 2025 season, following their triumph on home soil in Cape Town back in December 2024.

From the outset, the Blitzboks showcased their determination, demonstrating a defensive prowess that kept the Spanish team at bay, while their clinical attacks struck precisely when needed. Even when faced with adversity specifically, a late yellow card for Zander Reynders that left them a man short—the Blitzboks maintained their composure and resilience, further solidifying their status as a formidable force in the tournament.

In the final, the South African team’s defensive wall became impenetrable, thwarting multiple Spanish attempts to break through. After four minutes of testing the waters, the Blitzboks struck first with a phenomenal solo try from Selvyn Davids, who earned the Player of the Final accolade for his outstanding performance. Taking advantage of a scrum situation from 80 metres out, Davids weaved through the Spanish defence and sprinted nearly the entire length of the field, converting an early lead of 7-0 that would remain unchanged until halftime.

The second half unfolded with Spain increasing their possession and pushing back against South African territory. Yet, despite their efforts, the Blitzboks’ relentless defence continually forced errors from their opponents. Spain finally made a breakthrough when Pol Pla capitalised on a delayed pass to score from 50 metres out, though a missed conversion kept South Africa in the lead at 7-5.

With just minutes remaining, a crucial moment unfolded as Mfundo Ndhlovu, making his comeback after last playing in Cape Town, executed a brilliantly timed break, sprinting the length of the pitch to score South Africa’s second try. Ronald Brown’s conversion, coupled with a solid 14-5 lead, seemed to alleviate mounting pressure on the Blitzboks, even with the challenging prospect of playing a man down.

As Reynders was sidelined due to a yellow card, tensions rose; however, Siviwe Soyizwapi showcased his experience with a pivotal turnover, allowing the Blitzboks to maintain possession. Ricardo Duarttee ultimately sealed the match with a clinical try following a probing run from Tristan Leyds, showcasing the Blitzboks’ exceptional teamwork and strategy throughout the tournament.

Coach Philip Snyman commended his players for their unwavering work ethic and commitment, praising the collective effort that made the victory possible. Earlier in the tournament, the Blitzboks had already showcased their dominance with convincing pool stage wins against France, Great Britain, and Argentina, culminating in a resounding semi-final victory over New Zealand. Their 26-5 dismantling of the Kiwi side highlighted their attacking flair, with Shilton van Wyk scoring two early tries that set the tone for their impressive campaign.