Nyayo National Stadium became the noisiest place in Kenya last weekend as Kenya hosted the opening round of rugby’s HSBC SVNS 2 tournament.
What unfolded over February 14-15 was pure sporting theater. Massive upsets, last-second drama, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you fall in love with rugby all over again.
Nobody saw Germany coming. After Kenya’s men team stormed through day one, riding a 27-game winning streak, the Germans quietly went to work. Day two belonged to them entirely.
Felix Hufnagel ripped through USA’s defense twice as Germany crushed the previously unbeaten Americans 28-7.
By the time USA managed to end Kenya’s epic streak with a 21-5 win, it was too late. Germany had already claimed the title with clutch performances that proved its reputation. Kenyan captain George Ooro still walked away with Player of the Tournament, flashing his peace sign to adoring home fans as Shujaa took bronze.
Argentina’s women were simply unstoppable. Las Yaguaretés won the championship despite losing their final match.
They beat everyone in sight until South Africa finally caught them in a golden-point thriller, 17-12. Maria Tshiremba’s 90-meter solo sprint for South Africa was the highlight of the tournament, but Sofía Gonzalez had already done the damage.
Argentina’s captain lifted the trophy and claimed Player of the Tournament honors, announcing her team as serious promotion candidates.
But here’s what made Nairobi special: the people. The stadium sold out completely. Kenyan fans created a wall of noise that never stopped, turning every home team try into an earthquake of celebration.
Mexican waves rolled through the stands between non-stop music and dancing. This wasn’t just rugby; it was a full-blown party that happened to have world-class athletes in the middle of it.
With two more tournaments coming in, South America, Germany and Argentina lead the standings. Four teams from each competition will advance to the World Championship.
The competition is wide open, the rugby is fierce, and if Nairobi set the standard, we’re in for something special.
