Kenya Sevens Team, Shujaa, Makes Historic Return to Singapore Sevens Final
In a thrilling turn of events, the Kenya Sevens rugby team, affectionately known as Shujaa, has secured a spot in the final of the 2025 Singapore Sevens tournament. This marks their first main cup final appearance since 2018, a testament to the team's resilience and determination. The path to the final was paved with a decisive 12-5 victory over Spain in the semi-finals, setting the stage for a highly anticipated showdown against Fiji.
Shujaa's journey to the final began with impressive wins over Ireland and France in the group stages. They defeated Ireland 17-7 and edged past Olympic champions France 10-7, showcasing their strength and strategy. The semi-final match against Spain was a closely contested affair, with speedster Patrick Odongo scoring two tries, both converted by Nygel Amaitsa, securing a 12-0 lead at halftime. Spain managed a late consolation try, but it was too little, too late, as Shujaa held on to win 12-5.
The upcoming final against Fiji is filled with historical significance, echoing Shujaa's memorable 30-7 victory over the same opponents in the 2016 Singapore Sevens final. Fiji, renowned for their prowess in the sport, having won the World Series four times, the World Cup three times, and the Olympics twice, will undoubtedly present a formidable challenge. The Fijians have dominated Kenya in their recent encounters, winning 14 consecutive matches, making this final a true test of Shujaa's mettle.
Adding an intriguing layer to the match is the presence of Jone Kubu, a Fijian-born player now representing Kenya. Kubu, who made his debut for Kenya at the Vancouver Sevens earlier this year, will face his country of birth in the final. His inclusion in the team highlights the global nature of rugby and the diverse talent that makes up the Shujaa squad.
The final, scheduled for 2:41 PM Kenyan time, promises to be an electrifying encounter, with fans and supporters eagerly anticipating the outcome. Despite facing a tough season and the need to perform well in upcoming tournaments to maintain their core team status, Shujaa's achievement in reaching the final has filled Kenyan rugby enthusiasts with pride and anticipation.
As the team prepares to face Fiji, they are aware of the daunting task ahead but are buoyed by their recent performances. The match will not only be a clash of rugby titans but also a celebration of the sport's ability to transcend borders and unite players from diverse backgrounds. Whether Shujaa can replicate their 2016 victory remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: this final will be a defining moment for Kenyan rugby, marking a significant step forward in their journey to reclaim their place among the world's top sevens teams.
In the end, Shujaa's dreams of victory were not realized as they fell to Fiji 21-12 in the final, but their journey to the final remains a testament to their resilience and determination.