KAMPALA – Zimbabwe staged a dramatic second-half comeback to beat Kenya 29-23 in a bruising Rugby Africa Cup semi-final on Saturday, booking a spot in the final against Namibia and edging closer to 2027 Rugby World Cup qualification.
The Sables trailed 18-13 at halftime but wrestled back control through disciplined forward play and the precision kicking of Ian Prior, who landed two late penalties to seal the win.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa hailed the team’s performance on X, formerly Twitter, calling it a “hard-fought victory” and a reflection of “the strength and resilience of our people”.
Brendon Mudzekenyedzi scored Zimbabwe’s opening try after combining well with Edward Sigauke. Kenya replied in kind, but Prior slotted a penalty and captain Hilton Mudariki crossed over to make it 11-8 before Kenya surged back with two tries to take the lead into the break.
Momentum shifted in the second half as Zimbabwe’s bench brought renewed energy. Aiden Burnett crashed over after a maul to reclaim the lead, and Prior extended it with a clinical drop goal and two nerveless penalties.
Kenya struck back late but could not close the gap as Zimbabwe held on for a second consecutive Rugby Africa Cup final appearance.
Tinotenda Mavesera was named man of the match for a dominant performance in the pack. “This means everything to us and the people back home,” he told reporters.
Zimbabwe will face Namibia in the final, with a chance to move a step closer to returning to the Rugby World Cup for the first time since 1991.
Zimbabwe starting XV:
Victor Mupunga, Simba Mandioma, Cleopas Kundiona, Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa, Simba Siraha, Tinotenda Mavesere, Godfrey Muzanargwo, Jason Fraser, Hilton Mudariki (capt.), Ian Prior, Edward Sigauke, Kudzai Mashawi, Brandon Mudzekenyedzi, Matt McNab, Tapiwa Mafura
Replacements:
Liam Larkan, Tyran Fagan, Bornwell Gwinji, Aiden Burnett, Dylan Utete, Keegan Joubert, Dion Khumalo, Bruce Houston
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