James Topping’s team was the first from Team Ireland to compete in these games, delivering a dominant performance in Saint-Denis. Jordan Conroy and Terry Kennedy each scored tries in their respective halves.


This opening victory puts Ireland in a strong position in Pool A as they prepare for their next match against Japan at 8 PM Irish time. Earlier, Japan was defeated by New Zealand in another Pool A match.

Despite the official opening ceremony not being until Friday, preliminary rounds for soccer and rugby sevens began early for logistical reasons in Paris and across the country.


The fast-paced rugby sevens format allows for multiple matches per day, with medals in both the men’s and women’s tournaments set to be awarded before the 81,000-capacity stadium hosts the athletics events starting August 1st.