The Blitzboks produced a gritty comeback performance to defeat hosts Spain 14-12 in their Cup quarter-final at the Valladolid Sevens, securing a place in the semi-finals of the SVNS World Championship event.The match began poorly for South Africa, with Spain coming out firing and racing into a 12-0 lead within the opening seven minutes.

The Blitzboks struggled initially to secure possession and were put under serious pressure by the intensity of the home side, raising concerns of a repeat of earlier heavy defeats in the series.However, momentum began to shift when captain Impi Visser crossed the line for a converted try, reducing the deficit to 12-7.The try came after a sharp line break and well-timed pass from playmaker Tristan Leyds, helping to settle the South African side.

Spain responded with another strong attacking phase and looked set to extend their lead when Ángel Bozal broke down the wing and appeared destined to score under the posts.

In a crucial turning point, Sebastiaan Jobb produced a remarkable try-saving tackle, chasing down Bozal and knocking the ball loose just inches from the line.That intervention proved decisive, swinging momentum firmly in South Africa’s favour.

From the resulting phase of play, Jayden Nell scored his first try in South African colours, while Ricardo Duarttee added the conversion to give the Blitzboks a 14-12 lead.From there, South Africa managed the closing stages with composure to secure victory.The result followed a narrow pool-stage loss to Australia earlier in the day.The Blitzboks will now face Argentina in the semi-finals, while Australia take on Fiji in the other last-four clash.