Shujaa Pride: Kenya Sevens Storms Back to World Rugby Sevens Series After Playoff Win Over Germany

• Kenya Sevens 'Shujaa' convincingly beat Germany 33-15 to earn promotion back to the World Rugby Sevens Series
• Shujaa had previously been relegated after finishing 13th last year but performed strongly in the Challenger Series
• The team is now focused on preparing for the Paris Olympics after reclaiming their coveted World Series place

Kenya Sevens, affectionately known as Shujaa, have officially returned to the World Rugby Sevens Series.

The return was sealed with a dramatic 33-15 comeback win over Germany in a high-stakes promotion-relegation playoff at Civitas Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid on Sunday, June 2.

After finishing second in Group B, Shujaa faced a tough German team that had secured third place in Group A.

The playoff was a crucial win-or-go-home scenario, and the Kenyan squad was determined to return to the top tier of rugby sevens.

Real Sociedad reach Europa League, Cadiz relegated

Football

Shujaa faced off against Spain, Chile, and Samoa, while Group A featured teams like the USA, Uruguay, Germany, and Canada in the group stages.

Last year, Kenya faced relegation from the World Series after finishing 13th, per Pulse Sports, leading to a challenging season in the second-tier Challenger Series throughout 2024.

However, they demonstrated resilience and excellence, winning the opening leg in Dubai in January, finishing third in Montevideo in March, and securing fifth place in Munich in May. These performances earned them a spot in the promotion-relegation playoff in Madrid.

How Kenya's Shujaa overcame Germany in Sevens playoff

The Europeans took an early lead when Chris Umeh scored an unconverted try, putting them up 5-0. Shujaa quickly responded as their captain, Vincent Onyala, powered through two defenders to score near the posts. A successful conversion from Anthony Omondi gave Kenya a 7-5 lead.

A dangerous tackle by Chrissant Ojwang temporarily removed him from the game, and Germany capitalised on its numerical advantage. Maximilian Heid scored, restoring Germany's lead to 10-7 after a missed conversion.

Baba Rahman: Forgotten Chelsea Man Wins Greek League With POAK After Leaving England

Football

Despite the setback, Ojwang made a significant return, correcting his earlier mistake by scoring from the right wing, allowing Shujaa to lead 12-10 at half-time.

In the second half, Kenya’s coach, Kevin Wambua, made strategic changes, introducing John Okoth, who immediately impacted the game. Okoth's powerful run through the midfield extended Kenya's lead to 19-10 after another successful conversion by Omondi.

Germany continued to fight back, with Niklas Koch scoring an unconverted try, narrowing the gap to 19-15. Responding to this threat, Wambua brought in George Ooro and Brian Tanga, whose combined efforts led to a spectacular try, further extending Kenya's lead to 26-15.

The final nail in Germany's coffin came when Kevin Wekesa shrugged off two defenders to score Kenya's fifth try, sealing a decisive 33-15 victory.

This triumph marks the end of a challenging period for Shujaa, who had enjoyed 19 years as a core team in the World Series before their relegation. With their return now secured, the focus shifts to preparing for the upcoming Olympics, having already earned their spot for the Paris Games.

Serial winner Kroos eyes two-trophy finish to career

Football

"These brand-new talents gave their all to get us back to the top, and we are more than grateful for their belief, support, and faith. We celebrate now," Shujaa captain Vincent Onyala said after the match, as reported by The Standard.

Kenyan rugby legends receive boost

Sports Brief also previously reported that Kenya's rugby legends secured a sponsorship deal, paving the way for an exciting doubleheader against their Ugandan counterparts.

The two teams will play a highly anticipated rematch on June 8 at the Kings Park Arena in Kampala, bringing many big names back, before the return fixture a week later in Nairobi.