The Stage Was Set
The HSBC SVNS Singapore 2025 finale delivered a spectacle that will be etched in rugby sevens history. Against the backdrop of Singapore’s electrifying National Stadium, Fiji and Kenya clashed in a men’s final that combined raw physicality, tactical brilliance, and heart-stopping drama . For Kenya’s Shujaa, this was their first Cup final appearance since 2016—a chance to reclaim glory on the same stage where they last triumphed. Fiji, meanwhile, aimed to solidify their dominance in a rivalry they’ve owned since 2018 .
The Final Showdown: A Tale of Two Halves
Kenya exploded onto the pitch, silencing doubters with a ferocious first-half performance. Patrick Odongo’s lightning-fast try in the opening minute, converted by Nygel Amaitsa, set the tone. By halftime, Shujaa led 12-0, their defense impenetrable and their fans roaring .
But Fiji, the double Olympic champions, are no strangers to comebacks. Emerging from the break with renewed intensity, Viwa Naduvalo—later named HSBC Player of the Final—ignited the fightback. His two tries in quick succession leveled the score, and Rauto Vakadranu’s late try sealed a 21-12 victory for Fiji. Kenya’s late consolation try by William Mwanji was too little, too late .
Key Moments
- 0:58: Odongo’s opening try for Kenya stuns Fiji.
- Second Half: Naduvalo’s double and Vakadranu’s clincher showcase Fiji’s relentless attack.
- Defensive Masterclass: Kenya’s first-half defense crumbled under Fiji’s pressure, conceding penalties that shifted momentum .
The Underdogs’ Journey
Kenya’s road to the final was a story of resilience. After edging past Spain 12-5 in a tense semi-final, Shujaa’s passionate fanbase dared to dream. Their aggressive playstyle, led by Odongo and Amaitsa, nearly toppled the sevens giants. Yet, fatigue and Fiji’s tactical adjustments proved decisive .
For Fiji, this victory marked their first Singapore title since 2022. Captain Tira Wilag Pattersoni praised Kenya’s physicality, admitting, “It was so tough” . The win also extended Fiji’s dominance over Kenya to 15 consecutive victories—a streak dating back to 2018 .
Women’s Final: New Zealand’s Commanding Triumph
While the men’s final captivated, the women’s showdown saw New Zealand’ Black Ferns Sevens reaffirm their supremacy. A 31-7 demolition of Australia highlighted their clinical execution, with Michaela Brake and Risi Pouri-Lane scoring pivotal tries. Maddison Levi’s record-breaking 203rd career try was a lone bright spot for the Aussies .
Implications for the HSBC SVNS World Championship
The Singapore leg reshaped the landscape for the upcoming winner-takes-all World Championship in Los Angeles (May 3–4):
- Argentina and New Zealand retained their League Winner titles, earning psychological edges .
- Kenya and Spain will battle in the relegation tournament, alongside teams like Ireland and USA .
- Fiji and New Zealand enter LA as favorites, but as Dan Carter noted, “It’s all on the line” .
Fan Experience: More Than Just Rugby
Singapore’s festival atmosphere—live music, fan zones, and a 55,000-strong crowd—proved why the SVNS series is a global phenomenon. As Naduvalo aptly said, “Thanks to my teammates for giving 100% effort” , the event celebrated teamwork, passion, and the unifying power of sport.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Singapore Sevens was a microcosm of rugby sevens’ magic: underdogs rising, champions adapting, and fans witnessing history. As the HSBC SVNS circuit heads to LA, one question lingers: Can anyone stop Fiji and New Zealand?
For highlights, streaming details, and tournament updates, visit RugbyPass TV or explore the HSBC SVNS app .