The Kenya Simbas were handed a tough reality check on Monday, June 9, 2025, afternoon after falling 42-24 to South Africa U20 (Junior Boks) in their ongoing tour of South Africa.

The match, played in Stellenbosch, saw the Simbas surrender a commanding halftime lead, conceding five converted tries in the second half.

It was a repeat meeting between the two sides, who last faced off at the same venue in 2023, where the Simbas lost 42-19.

While Kenya showed improvement in the opening half, they could not hold off the Junior Boks’ second-half resurgence.

Simbas start strong

Kenya began the match with determination and tactical discipline. Although the Junior Boks scored first with a converted try to take a 7-0 lead, the Simbas quickly responded.

Captain George Nyambua powered over from a rolling maul to get Kenya on the board.

Soon after, center Walter Okoth crossed the whitewash following a well-executed phase play.

Timothy Omela added the extras, handing the Simbas a 12-7 advantage. Kenya was then awarded a penalty try, further extending their lead.

Nyambua grabbed his second try just before halftime, helping the Simbas close the half 24-7 up, dominating possession and set pieces.

Second-half collapse

However, the tide turned dramatically after the break. In line with their rotation policy, the Simbas fielded a completely different lineup for the second half.

The Junior Boks pounced on the shift in momentum, scoring two converted tries within seven minutes to close the gap to 24-21.

Junior Boks with two extra tries bringing their current tally to 42-24 in favour.#SupportTheSimbas #KQxSimbas #ElevateYourGame #RoadToRWC2027 pic.twitter.com/1LuuuaKtzA

— Kenya Rugby (@OfficialKRU) June 9, 2025

They didn’t look back from there. Exploiting gaps in Kenya’s restructured defense, the hosts added three more converted tries, one of which came from a driving maul off a lineout, sealing their comeback victory.

More games ahead

Despite the loss, the tour continues for the Simbas, who will get another shot at the Junior Boks on Saturday, June 14, 2025, in Stellenbosch. They will then travel to Wellington to face Sanlam Boland on Friday, June 20, 2025.

The final leg of the South Africa tour will feature two matches against Limpopo, scheduled for Tuesday, June 24, and Thursday, June 26, 2025.

Coach Jerome Paarwater will be looking to build on the positives from the first half while addressing second-half lapses as Kenya continues its preparations for upcoming regional tournaments.