Holders South Africa and New Zealand are set for a heavyweight semi-final collision after emerging unbeaten from the group stages in the Dubai Sevens, the opening tournament in the new IRB World Series.
South Africa were arguably the most impressive performers of the day, comfortably overcoming Canada, Tunisia and then an inexperienced England to book their place in the last eight.
And world champions New Zealand began convincingly enough, thumping Scotland and hosts Arabian Gulf before hanging on for a 21-19 victory over France for whom Loic Mazieres missed two kicks at goal in the final three minutes.
South Africa now play Kenya in the quarter-finals while New Zealand take on Argentina. In the other half of the draw, Samoa face England and Fiji clash with Scotland.
South Africa coach Paul Treu paid tribute to Fabian Juries, the third highest try scorer in IRB seven history who marked his return to sevens duty with two touchdowns against Tunisia and then a quality hat-trick against England.
He said: "Fabian is starting to rebuild his confidence. He's not yet at his best but he is starting to get there."
New Zealand coach Gordon Tietjens said the close encounter with France would act as "a big wake-up call" for his young squad.
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South Africa and NZ on collision course
South Africa and NZ on collision course
