The Kenya Lionesses put on a brave performance but fell just short in their second-round clash at the 2025 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup, narrowly losing 19-12 to the Springbok Women at Stade Makis in Antananarivo, Madagascar.
South Africa led 12-0 at halftime after scoring two tries — one early through Aphiwe Ngwevu and another just before the break by Lerato Makua. Mary Zulu added the extras for the opening try, but missed the second conversion.
Despite the early setbacks, the Kenyan defence remained resolute, often frustrating the Boks with solid tackling and pressure that forced handling errors and disrupted their rhythm. The Lionesses also capitalized on South Africa’s struggles at the lineout and some controversial refereeing decisions that appeared to rattle the tournament favourites.
Kenya fought back strongly in the second half. After conceding a third try to Nobuhle Mjwara, which was converted by Zulu, the Lionesses roared back with tries from Freshia Oduor — converted by Sinaida Mokaya — and Noleen Khaleyi, whose effort brought Kenya within striking distance.
The match ended 19-12 in favour of South Africa suffering first loss.
The Lionesses now shift their focus to the final matchday on June 15, 2025, when they face Uganda at 13:00 GMT in a highly anticipated East African derby.
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