Zimbabwe has upset Canada 24-21 in the Core Qualifier tournament at the Hong Kong 7s.

Zimbabwe hasn't beaten Canada in six years, but looked much more adventurous, showing some slick handling and keeping the ball alive - wisely avoiding contact against a physical Canada team.

Two quick tries put Zimbabwe ahead, and while Taylor Paris got one back, Zimbabwe replied immediately to lead 17-7.

In the second half, Canada scored through Paris once more to make it 17-14. But a nifty five-man lineout play from Zimbabwe gave them a key score.

Sean White scored in the corner for Canada, and Nathan Hirayama hit the tough conversion to put Canada within three 24-21. Canada had one more shot, but a desperate tackle put Conor Trainor into tough inches from the line, and give Zimbabwe a dramatic victory.

This is a mighty blow to Canada's tournament hopes, but possibly not fatal.

Canada will need to beat Spain to be sure of a quarterfinal place. A loss, coupled with a Zimbabwe win over the Philippines could spell trouble.