Lionesses Roar into Semis, Shujaa Edged Out in Munich Thriller

Kenya’s women’s rugby 7s team, the Lionesses, delivered a dominant performance to defeat Argentina 22-5, securing a spot in the semifinals of the Challenger Series’ third leg in Krakow, Poland.

The Lionesses roared into action from the start, with co-captain Judith Auma scoring an early try. Stella Wafula quickly followed, piercing through the Argentine defense to extend the lead.

Sinaida Nyachio’s successful conversion further widened the gap, and Phoebe Otieno’s try just before halftime solidified their commanding lead. Sharon Auma’s dash resulted in another try, while Argentina managed a single try by Brisa Trigo.

Meanwhile, the men’s team, Shujaa, faced a narrow defeat against Germany, with a score of 17-19, in the quarterfinals in Munich.

Despite a strong start with Patrick Odongo equalizing after an early German try, and Nygel Amaitsa putting Shujaa ahead, the match saw a tense exchange of advantages. Kevin Wekesa’s temporary expulsion was matched by a German player’s dismissal, keeping the contest even.

The second half saw John Okoth break through to score for Kenya, with Brian Tanga converting. However, Germany’s late-game surge, capped by Jakob Dipper’s last-minute try and Felix Hufnagel’s conversion, snatched the victory, dashing Shujaa’s hopes and propelling the hosts closer to the playoffs in Madrid.