Victory over Argentina at the Singapore world series tournament has seen the All Blacks Sevens join their female counterparts in qualification for the 2023 Paris Olympics.
After passing through poolplay unbeaten, then dispensing with Great Britain and Fiji to reach the final, the NZ men barely edged their South American opponents, who have become their closest rivals on the circuit this year.
New Zealand scored twice through Dyland Collier and Moses Leo to establish their early advantage and lead 12-5 at halftime, but Argentina struck back after the break to close within two points.
As they pressed for a go-ahead try, the Pumas overthrew an attacking lineout and Brady Rush pounced on the loose ball to gallop 90 metres for the decisive try.
Marcos Moneta grabbed another for Argentina in the final seconds, but the final 19-17 scoreline could be attributed to Akuila Rokolisoa kicking a extra conversion.
"We have been driving for Olympic qualification since the season kicked off," said coach Clark Laidlaw. "To achieve our goal is great, but we still have two tournaments to go.
"As a team, our focus now shifts to our next tournament in Toulouse, and continue to grow as a group and finish the season strong."
The result - their fourth tournament win in the last five events - extends New Zealand's lead over Argentina atop the world series standings. Only the South Americans have interrupted their march, with victories at Hamilton and Vancouver.
"It has been no easy task to secure Olympic qualification," said NZ Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson. "Our All Blacks Sevens squad’s depth has been challenged through injury, but the growth and performance of the group has been outstanding.
"We’re looking forward to continuing to support their efforts on the world stage, as they continue to strive to secure the world series title."
The NZ men have two tournament remaining at Toulouse (May 12-14) and London (May 20-21).
New Zealand 19 (Collier, Leo & Rush tries; Rokolisoa 2 conversions) Argentina 17 (Pellandini, Schulz & Moneta tries; Gonzalez conversion)
