Kenya’s under-20 rugby team Chipu secured a spot in the 2023 Barthes Cup final after defeating Namibia 24-13 in a hard-fought semifinal match held at Nyayo National Stadium.
Regardless of Namibia taking an early lead with a penalty, Kenya quickly fought back with a converted try from Eddy Wambugu to end the first half leading 7-3.
In the second half, Namibia briefly took the lead with a converted try, but Kenya responded with a try from Chacha Masega, followed by a penalty and another try from Jackton Odhiambo.
The victory means Chipu will face Zimbabwe Rugby in the final on April 29, 2023.
Kenya’s U20 Head Coach, Curtis Olago, expressed his delight with the win, particularly as Namibia had defeated them the previous year.
Zimbabwe had earlier thrashed Tunisia 60-6 in the other semifinal. Olago looked forward to the final against Zimbabwe, saying that it would be entertaining and significant, as both teams would be heading to the Junior World Trophy.
The 2023 Junior World Trophy will take place in July, with Kenya hosting as the defending champions. Zimbabwe has also qualified as the runner-up in the U20 Barthes Trophy.
In the placement semifinals, Zambia defeated Uganda 21-13, while Cote D’Ivoire beat Madagascar 16-11.
Namibia and Tunisia will compete for third and fourth place, while Cote D’Ivoire and Zambia will vie for fifth place.
