The much anticipated HSBC SVNS 2 tournament kicked off on Saturday 14 2026 at the Nyayo Stadium with three women’s matches to start off the rugby extravaganza.
In the first game, Argentina beat China 20-10 as they ran in four unconverted tries to China’s two.
In the second game, South Africa had to dig deep to beat Spain 14-12. Both teams were tied 7-7 at half time. In the second half, both teams went at each other, both managing to score a try apiece but it was Captain Nadim Roos’ conversion that made the difference.
In the last match of the round, hosts Kenya had to come back from 12 points down to beat Brazil 15-12. Brazil took an early 12 nil lead in the first half before Janet Okello went over in the first half to reduce the deficit to 5-12.
The second half was all Kenya as Lionesses scored 10 unanswered points through Naomi Amuguni and Stella Wafula.
Speaking after the match, Kenya’s Head Coach Simon Odongo hailed the effect Kenya the local fans had in pushing his team to the crucial win. “It is always good to have the extra man chanting your name, the sound right now is magnified three times due to the number of fans who have showed up and we are very happy they pushed us to win the game.”
Round 2 of the Women’s games resume at noon with Spain taking on Argentina, followed by Brazil vs South Africa and lastly China vs Kenya.
By James Njenga
