Kenya’s hopes of qualifying for the 2027 Rugby World Cup were dashed on Sunday evening, July 13, 2025, after the national 15s side, the Simbas, fell 29-23 to defending champions Zimbabwe in a tightly contested Rugby Africa Cup semifinal at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala.

In a heated encounter that rekindled a long-standing rivalry between the two sides, the Simbas started with intent. Patrick Sabatia soared to collect Barry Young’s kickoff, setting the tone early with promising possession.

But it was Zimbabwe who struck first, punishing a turnover with Brandon Mudzekenyedzi finishing off a break down the left flank.

Kenya responded swiftly through Eugene Sifuna, who powered over from a rolling maul, levelling the score at 5-5. However, discipline soon cost the Simbas as Griffin Chao was yellow-carded for a high tackle, allowing Zimbabwe’s Ian Prior to restore the lead with a penalty.

The Simbas showed resilience, clawing back with a penalty from Jone Kubu to make it 8-8. But the Sables hit again through Hilton Mudariki, who pounced on an offload to score in the corner.

Too little, too late

Kubu narrowed the gap once more with another penalty, before Chao made amends just before halftime—capitalising on a dropped ball to score under the posts. Kubu added the extras, handing Kenya an 18-13 lead at the break.

The second half saw missed opportunities from the Simbas, particularly from maul situations deep in Zimbabwe’s half. The Sables, more clinical, piled on pressure and regained control through their forwards.

Prior converted a close-range try before extending the lead with a drop goal and two penalties, taking the game to 29-18.

Kenya’s final effort came from substitute Brian Tanga, who dotted down off a defending lineout in the dying moments. But it was too little, too late.

The final whistle confirmed Zimbabwe’s victory and Kenya’s exit from both the Rugby Africa Cup title race and the 2027 World Cup qualification path.

The Simbas will now face Algeria in the third-place playoff, while Zimbabwe proceed to the final against Namibia, where a World Cup ticket is up for grabs.