Kenya’s national men’s rugby 7s team, Shujaa, delivered a robust performance to defeat Japan 28-12, marking a victorious start to the third leg of the Challenger Series at Munich’s Dantestadion.
The match began with Shujaa on the defensive, conceding an early try to Japan’s Shotaro Tsuoka. However, Kevin Wekesa quickly equalized for Kenya, capitalizing on a pass from Nygel Amaitsa to dash 50 metres and score.
Tony Omondi, the co-captain, then secured a conversion, propelling Shujaa into the lead. Japan’s brief period of control yielded another try by Moeki Fukushi, converted by Ryota Kano, but this was the last of their scoring.
In the second half, Shujaa returned with renewed vigor. Amaitsa connected with John Okoth, who scored on the right wing. Patrick Odongo, back from injury, further extended Kenya’s lead with a dynamic try, followed by a successful conversion from Omondi.
As the match neared its end, substitute Chrisant Ojwang added another try, with Omondi’s conversion sealing the victory.
Looking ahead, Shujaa’s next challenge is against Portugal, following Portugal’s heavy loss to Chile. The Kenyan team’s eyes are firmly set on the playoffs in Madrid, with their recent performance signaling their readiness for the competition.
