PARIS, July 29 (Bernama-Xinhua) -- China shocked the rugby world by thrashing Tokyo bronze medallists Fiji 40-12 in the women's sevens tournament at the Stade de France on Sunday.
Despite losing heavily to New Zealand in their first-ever match at the Olympics, China came out for their second match in Pool A against Fiji with a point to prove.
Speaking after the memorable win, kicker Gu Yaoyao struggled to hold back tears.
"I am very happy and very excited right now, not because we won against a strong team, but because we did our best to showcase our own strengths. We cooperated very well, and there is no regret about this game, so we are happy for ourselves.
"After losing the first game (against New Zealand), it had some impact on our second game. But we reviewed the game, found our own problems, and the most important thing was to focus on the next game rather than dwell on the previous one," the Chinese No. 5 revealed.
Drawn in perhaps the most difficult group of the tournament, Gu described how the team spirit helped the team prepare mentally for the tournament.
"After seeing the opponents in the same group, we also discussed and felt that with the Olympic champion and the Olympic bronze medallist in the group, this group is really tough. We will also face pressure and nervousness.
“But the coach and teammates provide psychological counselling to each other, helping us to let go of our burdens, play in our own style, and stay united."
With a deciding match for second place and a guaranteed spot in the quarterfinals against Canada, all of China's focus now shifts to Monday. "Our goal now is to advance from the group stage, focusing on each game and not thinking too far ahead," Gu said.
Elsewhere on the first day of the women's tournament, the United States (US) won both their games in Pool C, while France, fresh from their gold medal in the men's tournament, also went two for two against Japan and Brazil.
France and the US are set to face each other Monday to decide the winner of Pool C.
Australia were the only team with a perfect record in Pool B, after they defeated South Africa and Britain.
-- BERNAMA-XINHUA
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