The Blitzboks beat Japan 35-5 after losing to Scotland earlier on day one of the Paris Sevens.

What a response. After suffering a disappointing 19-12 defeat to Scotland in their first pool fixture, the Blitzboks showed more urgency and physicality to run in five tries against Japan.

Tries by Cecil Afrika and Siviwe Soyizwapi allowed South Africa to take a 14-0 lead into the break. Werner Kok scored immediately after half-time as the Blitzboks began to hit their stride.

Afrika and Soyizwapi both crossed the line for a second time. Japan claimed a consolation try on the stroke of full-time.

South Africa need to beat Canada in their remaining pool fixture to qualify for the Cup quarter-finals.

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REMAINING FIXTURE (DAY 1)
vs Canada (18:42)

All the Paris Sevens fixtures and results

Photo: Christophe Simon/AFP Photo