By T. Jayani, JadeTimes News
Rugby fans were treated to a preview of Olympic excitement as French rugby legend Antoine Dupont led his team to a Sevens World Series victory in Madrid. France triumphed over favorites Argentina in the final, securing a 19-5 win with three tries, including a decisive third score set up by Dupont for Paulin Riva.
After a 19 year wait for a Sevens title, France has now claimed victory in two of the five tournaments since Toulouse scrum half Dupont transitioned from the 15 a side squad. "Antoine is the best player in the world, we believe," said Riva. "With him on the pitch, our confidence soars, and we are thrilled with tonight's result. It's as if the Olympics are already here."
At 27, Dupont is anticipated to be one of the standout athletes at the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris. His pivotal role in the Madrid win underscored his importance to the team. Dupont scored a try and set up another as France came from behind to defeat Great Britain 17-12 in extra time during the group stages, advancing to the semi-finals. In the semis, Dupont came off the bench to inspire a comeback against Fiji, contributing to the build up of two second half tries in a 21-14 victory.
In the final, Argentina had taken an early lead with Luciano Gonzalez scoring in the corner, making it 5-0 late in the first half. France responded with a breakaway try under the posts by Stephen Parez Edo Martin just before half time. Dupont entered the game after the break with France leading 7-5. Jefferson Lee Joseph extended the lead with a flowing move, and Dupont then drew in two defenders to set up Riva for the winning try.
Dupont, awarded player of the tournament, remarked, "I hope the Olympics will be a monumental event for us. We aim to win, but many other nations have the same goal. We have two months to prepare as rigorously as possible, and we hope to be ready by July."
The men's sevens tournament at the Paris Olympics begins on 24 July, with the women's event starting on 28 July.