Nairobi — Kenya's Shujaa and their women counterpart Kenya Lionesses secured slots in the 2026 HSBC Division 2 after winning their respective play-offs Sunday at the final leg of 2024/25 World Sevens Series in Los Angeles.
The qualification marks a significant step forward for the country's sevens programs as they continue their journey back to the top of international rugby.
Shujaa, who were placed in pool A against Samoa, Portugal and USA, opened their campaign with mixed results.
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Despite managing only one win and suffering two losses in the pool stages, they finished second in their group, earning them a playoff final berth.
In the must-win final, Shujaa rose to the occasion with a commanding 24-5 victory over the Canadians, sealing their place in the 2026 Division 2 with style.
Lionesses History
On the women's side, the Kenya Lionesses followed a similar path. Lionesses also registered one win and two losses in the pool phase, finishing third in their pool.
Booking a playoff final date with continental rivals, South Africa--a team they've had several hard-fought battles with in recent years.
The playoff final was a tense, high-stakes clash. South Africa appeared to be in control for much of the match, holding a 14-10 lead deep into the second half.
However, in the final minute, Freshia Adhiambo broke through South Africa's defensive line with a solo run, grounding a converted try that swung the game in Lionesses favor, the full-time score 17-14 in favor of the Lionesses--an incredible turnaround that booked their place alongside Shujaa in the 2026 HSBC Division 2.
