Afrika hails defensive steel as Bok Women’s Sevens conquer Dubai and book SVNS 2 place
Springbok Women’s Sevens coach Cecil Afrika praised discipline and teamwork after an unbeaten Dubai campaign, where South Africa lifted the HSBC SVNS 3 title, defeated Argentina in the final, and secured qualification for the SVNS 2 series. Bulls Daisies flyer Patience Mokone scored the winning try for the Springbok Women.
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Cecil Afrika paid tribute to his players’ composure, defensive discipline, and collective effort after the Springbok Women’s Sevens capped a flawless weekend in Dubai by lifting the HSBC SVNS 3 title.
South Africa went through the tournament unbeaten, topping their pool on Saturday before producing controlled performances on Sunday to eliminate Poland in the semi final and edge Argentina 12-5 in a hard-fought final.
For Afrika, the hallmark of the campaign was the way his side managed matches under pressure, defending with intensity while showing the patience to strike when opportunities arose.
“It was a great win, and the players deserve all the credit,” Afrika said. “We defended really well, but our attack was also very effective when it mattered.”
The Dubai triumph marked Afrika’s second successive title since taking over the coaching role in October, adding to the Rugby Africa Women’s Sevens Cup claimed in Nairobi in November. That same Kenyan city will host the team’s next tournament on their 2026 journey.
Afrika said the balance between defence and attack was central to the success. He highlighted the players’ willingness to work for each other, get back into defensive shape, and trust the system rather than forcing individual moments.
“When we needed to, we defended our line very well,” he said. “When the chance came, we could switch to attack and score some really good tries.”
The victory also secured qualification for the HSBC SVNS 2 series, with three tournaments ahead, starting in Nairobi on 14 and 15 February. While the squad will enjoy the moment, Afrika stressed that preparation would soon resume.
He also acknowledged the wider squad members who remained at home, crediting them for their role in preparation and tactical planning.
The team departs Dubai later on Sunday and is scheduled to arrive back in Cape Town at 11:00 on Monday, carrying both silverware and renewed momentum into the next phase of their season.