Sports Correspondent
KAMPALA, Uganda – Zimbabwe’s national rugby team, the Sables, produced a thrilling second-half fightback to defeat Kenya 29-23 in a tense Rugby Africa Cup semi-final on Saturday, securing a place in the final against Namibia and moving closer to qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Trailing 18-13 at halftime, Zimbabwe turned the game around with disciplined forward play and the pinpoint kicking of flyhalf Ian Prior, who slotted two crucial late penalties to seal the victory.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa praised the team’s resilience on social media, calling it a
“hard-fought victory that reflects the strength and determination of our people.”
The Sables opened the scoring with a well-worked try by Brendon Mudzekenyedzi, assisted by Edward Sigauke. Kenya responded swiftly, but Prior’s penalty and a try from captain Hilton Mudariki put Zimbabwe ahead 11-8. Kenya struck back with two tries before halftime to take a five-point lead.
The second half saw Zimbabwe’s substitutes inject fresh energy, with Aiden Burnett powering over from a rolling maul to reclaim the lead. Prior then extended the advantage with a composed drop goal and two decisive penalties.
Despite a late surge from Kenya, Zimbabwe’s defense held firm, securing their second consecutive Rugby Africa Cup final appearance.
Flanker Tinotenda Mavesera, named Man of the Match for his dominant performance, said:
“This means everything to us and the people back home. We fought for every inch, and now we have a final to win.”
The Sables will face Namibia in the final, with a chance to move one step closer to their first Rugby World Cup appearance since 1991.
Zimbabwe Starting XV:
Victor Mupunga, Simba Mandioma, Cleopas Kundiona, Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa, Simba Siraha, Tinotenda Mavesere, Godfrey Muzanargwo, Jason Fraser, Hilton Mudariki (capt.), Ian Prior, Edward Sigauke, Kudzai Mashawi, Brandon Mudzekenyedzi, Matt McNab, Tapiwa Mafura
Replacements:
Liam Larkan, Tyran Fagan, Bornwell Gwinji, Aiden Burnett, Dylan Utete, Keegan Joubert, Dion Khumalo, Bruce Houst
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