Paris, July 26 – New Zealand has opened the Paris Olympics rugby sevens competition with a dominant 38-5 victory over Japan in a Pool B match at the Stade Jean-Bouin on Tuesday. The defending champions All Blacks Sevens controlled the match from start to finish, scoring six tries to Japan’s one.
A Strong Start for New Zealand
New Zealand started the match with a bang, scoring two tries within the first four minutes. Captain Scott Curry opened the scoring in the first minute, and Moses Leo added another try shortly after. Japan responded with a try from Kazushi Hano in the sixth minute, but New Zealand quickly regained control of the match.
A Second Half Dominance
In the second half, New Zealand continued to dominate, scoring four more tries. Akuila Rokolisoa, Ngarohi McGarvey-Black, Regan Ware, and Sam Dickson all crossed the try line for the All Blacks Sevens.
Japan Struggled to Find a Rhythm
Japan, meanwhile, struggled to find their rhythm in the match. They made several handling errors and were unable to generate any sustained pressure on the New Zealand defense. The Japanese team also missed several tackles, which allowed New Zealand to score some easy tries.
Key Stats
- New Zealand: 6 tries, 38 points
- Japan: 1 try, 5 points
What’s Next?
New Zealand will next face Argentina in Pool B on Wednesday, while Japan will play Kenya. Both matches will be played at the Stade Jean-Bouin.
Kind regards
E. Thompson
