In an intense men’s final, Kenya Men’s Rugby team, Shujaa, beat Chile 12-5 in spectacular display of athleticism and strategy, to be crowned champions at the World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger Series held in Dubai. The triumph marks a significant achievement for the Kenyan team, further solidifying their reputation in the global rugby sevens arena. The Challenger provides a promotion pathway to HSBC SVNS 2025.
https://twitter.com/SVNSSeries/status/1797295168669774169
The Kenyan team, are not new to HSBC SNVS and are renown for their speed, agility, and tactical prowess, dominated the series, showcasing their unparalleled skills and teamwork. This win is not only a testament to their hard work and dedication but also a source of immense pride for their fans, Kenya and Africa at large.
https://twitter.com/KenyaSevens/status/1797350606392463380
Throughout the tournament, Kenya demonstrated exceptional performance, overcoming formidable opponents with grace and precision. Their journey to the finals was marked by a series of decisive victories, each match displaying their unwavering commitment and competitive spirit. Earlier in the day, Uruguay 21-5 in the semi-final. The final match saw Kenya face off against a strong opponent, but their strategic gameplay and cohesive team effort secured them the coveted title.
“With highly competitive matches throughout, no unbeaten teams and semi-finalists from four different continents, it was a great demonstration of the potential for sevens to continue to evolve and excite fans around the world on the road to the Olympic Games Paris 2024.”
Nigel Cass, World Rugby Chief Competitions and Performance Officer
This victory in Dubai is expected to have a profound impact on rugby in Kenya. It serves as an inspiration for upcoming players and highlights the potential of Kenyan athletes on the global stage. The win is likely to boost the sport’s popularity in Kenya and Africa as a whole, encouraging more youth participation and investment in rugby development programs.
Following their triumph, celebrations erupted across Kenya, with fans and supporters lauding the team’s outstanding achievement. The players, coaches, and support staff received accolades for their exceptional performance and dedication. Looking ahead, the Kenyan team has their eyes set on Olympic Games Paris 2024, Estadio Charrúa in Montevideo, Uruguay on 8-10 March, 2025 before standalone women’s and men’s events at Henryk Reyman’s Municipal Stadium in Krakow, Poland and Dantestadion in Munich, Germany respectively on 18-19 May, 2025 among other tournaments, maintaining their status as a powerhouse in rugby sevens.
“We are super happy. We knew this Challenger event in Dubai was very crucial for us to start on a high and now we must carry on with the momentum until the last tournament.”
Tony Omondi, Kenya co-captain
Kenya’s victory at the World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger Series in Dubai is a monumental achievement that will be remembered for years to come. It highlights the strength and potential of Kenyan rugby on the international stage, promising a bright future for the sport in the country.
