By Kuchineyi Lewis
Zimbabwe’s Sables are now just one game away from a sensational return to the Rugby World Cup after edging out arch-rivals Kenya 29–23 in a thrilling Rugby Africa Cup semi-final masterclass.
The hard-fought victory earns Zimbabwe a place in the final against southern neighbours and world cup frequenters, Namibia, setting up a high-stakes showdown with a ticket to the 2027 Rugby World Cup on the line.
The Sables struck early with a moment of magic between midfield maestros Brendon Mudzekenyedzi and Edward Sigauke. Their sharp interplay cut through Kenya’s defensive line, allowing Mudzekenyedzi to dive over for a try that echoed the quality of top-tier rugby.
Kenya responded with a try of their own but failed to convert, leveling the match at 5–5. Ian Prior calmly slotted a penalty to restore Zimbabwe’s lead, 8–5, as the battle shifted into a fierce midfield tug-of-war.
A yellow card to Kenya’s Griffin Chao for a cynical infringement gave Zimbabwe a crucial edge. Though Kenya equalized at 8–8 with a penalty, Zimbabwe captain Hilton Mudariki restored control with a determined finish off a series of tight mauls. Kenya clawed back once more with a try, trimming Zimbabwe’s lead to 13–11.
Tapiwa Mafura lit up the field with elusive running, though Prior uncharacteristically missed a penalty. That lapse proved costly as Kenya capitalized on a defensive error to score and lead 18–13 at halftime.
The Sables returned for the second half with renewed fire. Victor Mupunga, bandaged from a blood injury, returned to the scrum, while Bornwell Gwinji made strong carries after replacing Cleopas Kundiona.
The midfield dominance continued, with Mudzekenyedzi and Kudzai Mashawi containing Kenya’s attacking threats.
Aiden Burnett, returning from injury, came off the bench to inject fresh momentum and dotted down beside the posts after a powerful driving maul. Prior converted to hand Zimbabwe a 20–18 lead.
The final quarter turned into a mental and tactical duel where Prior extended Zimbabwe’s advantage with a superb drop goal, then followed up with a long-range penalty in the 75th minute to make it 26–18.
But Prior had the final say, drilling another pinpoint penalty from a tight angle to make it 29–18. Kenya managed a late consolation try, but the win was sealed.
Man of the match Tinotenda Mavesera was immense in the forward pack, imposing his physical presence throughout.
“This is for the people back home. We stuck to the plan, and we believed. That belief is what carried us,” said Mavesera, breathless and beaming.
With just one more hurdle remaining, Namibia, the Sables are closer than they’ve been in three decades to reclaiming their place on rugby’s biggest stage.
