The Kenya Morans launched their 2025 Rugby Africa 7s Men’s Cup campaign in emphatic style on Saturday, June 21, 2025, with a commanding victory over Ivory Coast at the Labourdonnais Sports Club in Mauritius.

Right from kickoff, it was clear that the Morans meant business, with Floyd Wabwire setting the tone early with a blazing run that ended in the opening try.

His electrifying pace would soon return to haunt the Ivorians, as he notched up another try before halftime, underlining his threat on the wings.

With Jackson Siketi adding the extras and Dennis Abukuse later crossing the whitewash and converting his own effort, Kenya headed into the break with a healthy 19-0 lead.

Ivory Coast had little response to Kenya’s intensity, struggling to break through a solid defensive line marshalled by captain George Ooro and his deputy Chrisant Ojwang.

New faces shine

The Morans picked up right where they left off after the break.

Debutant Matoka made an immediate impact, slicing through the defense to ground his first try in national colours.

Though the conversion sailed wide, the Morans’ rhythm remained unchecked.

Wabwire continued his standout performance, dancing past defenders to register another try, leaving fans convinced he was in top form.

As the final minutes ticked away, Felix Okoth added the finishing touch to a flawless team effort, with Matoka slotting in the conversion to seal the win.

From defense to attack, the Morans looked sharp, cohesive, and well-prepared, justifying their status as one of the tournament favourites.

Focus shifts ahead

With this strong start, Kenya now turns its attention to the next group fixtures against Ghana at 12:12 pm and bitter rivals Uganda later in the day at 3:18 PM EAT.

Both matches will test the Morans’ depth and discipline, especially against a Ugandan side that’s no stranger to upsets.

Felix Okoth with the last try of the game.Matoka with the extras.

Full-time score
38-0 Ivory Coast

— Kenya Rugby (@OfficialKRU) June 21, 2025

But if Saturday’s opener is anything to go by, the Morans are hungry, focused, and ready to reclaim their place atop African rugby.

Coach Kisia’s rallying cry, “We want it back”, is already resonating with the team’s fiery start.