The Kenya Lionesses sevens team has been making waves in the Rugby Africa Women’s 7s tournament being held in Tunisia. This event not only serves as a significant competition but also acts as a crucial stepping stone for teams in their preparation for the Olympics. With Kenya’s men’s team, Shujaa 7s, having already qualified for the Olympics next year, the Lionesses have been eager to show that they too are a formidable force to be reckoned with.
The Kenya Lionesses began their journey in the Rugby Africa Women’s 7s tournament by dominating the pool stage. Their opening match was against Zambia, where they showcased their exceptional skills and teamwork, resulting in an impressive victory with a score of 27-0. This initial win set the tone for their campaign and signaled their intent to compete at the highest level.
In their second pool match against Ghana, two standout players, Sharon Auma and Janet Okello, took center stage. Their outstanding performances on the pitch propelled the Lionesses to a dominant 41-0 win over Ghana. This not only highlighted the team’s depth but also their ability to adapt to different opponents.
The final pool match against Madagascar proved to be more challenging for the Lionesses. Despite a fierce battle, the Kenyan team emerged victorious, but by a narrow margin of 20-17 against Madagascar. This close contest demonstrated the Lionesses’ resilience and ability to maintain their composure under pressure.
Today, at 1:06 PM East Africa Time (EAT), the Kenya Lionesses will face the Uganda Lady Cranes in the semifinals of the Rugby Africa Women’s 7s. This match represents a critical juncture in the tournament, as the winner will advance to the final and be one step closer to securing the championship.
The Kenya Lionesses’ outstanding performance in the pool stage of the Rugby Africa Women’s 7s tournament has undoubtedly showcased their prowess and determination. They have proven themselves as a force to be reckoned with on the international stage, and their success thus far serves as an inspiration for women’s rugby in Kenya.
As they prepare to face the Uganda Lady Cranes in the semifinals, all eyes are on the Lionesses to continue their impressive journey in the tournament. Their achievements not only bode well for their aspirations in this competition but also raise hopes for their potential future success in the Olympics.
The Kenya Lionesses have demonstrated that they possess the skill, teamwork, and determination required to succeed at the highest level of women’s rugby, and the rugby community eagerly anticipates the outcome of their semifinal clash with Uganda.
By Juliet Kamau