The Shahin Rugby Team has won the Algarve International Sevens Championship held in Vila Real de Santo António, Portugal, after defeating the Durham University team by a score of 20-12 in the final match.

This victory concludes a successful journey for Shahin, which saw them compete in six matches throughout the tournament, winning all of them to advance to the final after a decisive 38-12 win against Natty Scumbanati in the semifinals.

The Shahin team consisted of 12 local players, complemented by a coaching staff that includes Coach Apolo Perolini, along with Yusuf Shakir and Khaldoon Al-Mlih, and team administrator Nizar Mahran.

Mohamed Sultan Al-Zaabi, Secretary-General of the UAE Rugby Federation and head of the delegation, expressed his happiness at this achievement.

He highlighted that the Algarve tournament is one of the premier sevens championships globally, featuring several clubs and national teams.

Al-Zaabi noted, "The Shahin team succeeded in winning six matches during the tournament, including three in the preliminary rounds and three in the knockout rounds.

The final victory against Durham University, who had eliminated the defending champions, is a significant accomplishment.

This success is attributed to the efforts of the Federation's Board of Directors, chaired by Sheikh Mohammed bin Maktoum bin Jumaa Al Maktoum, as the team is under the Federation's auspices and consists of local players, whom we are preparing for the future while participating in competitions to gain experience."

He further added, "The Federation's Board and its members closely monitor the team's activities.

This victory marks the second tournament win for Shahin, following their triumph at the Borneo International Sevens held in Sandakan, Malaysia.

The experience gained here is substantial concerning technical skills and the opportunity to compete against different playing styles.

The Federation's strategy focuses on preparing players over three years to ensure this group is ready to represent our country and achieve continental championships."

Looking ahead, Al-Zaabi indicated that the upcoming phase will involve enhanced preparations for the team through increased participation in international tournaments, alongside their local league participation.

Shahin recently achieved its first-ever league title this season and the players are expected to take a brief respite following the tournament before resuming their participation in the domestic first division in September.