The Kenya Sevens rugby team, affectionately known as Shujaa, is set to embark on their quest for Olympic glory in Paris, beginning with a formidable doubleheader on Wednesday.
Shujaa’s first encounter will be against the red-hot Argentina at 5 PM East African Time, followed by a clash with Australia at 8 PM.
A historical battle against Argentina
Kenya’s opener against Argentina marks their first Olympic meeting.
However, history is not on Shujaa’s side, as Argentina boasts a six-game winning streak against Kenya, dating back to the start of the 2020 series.
The last time Kenya tasted victory in this fixture was during the Las Vegas leg of the 2019 series.
Argentina’s dominance has been marked by their stifling defense, limiting Kenya to one try or less in their past four victories. Kenya’s most recent attempt to break through Los Pumas’ defense saw them score just seven points in Dubai in the 2022 series.
With these statistics in mind, Shujaa faces a challenging task but remains hopeful under the leadership of their tactically adept coach, Kevin ‘Bling’ Wambua.
A fierce rivalry with Australia
Later that evening, at 8 PM, Shujaa will lock horns with Australia. Their last encounter saw Kenya triumph with a narrow five-point victory in Los Angeles in 2023, ending a four-game winless streak.
However, Kenya has not secured consecutive wins against Australia since the Wellington series in 2011-12 and has never beaten Australia outside the SVNS series.
Australia’s defensive prowess is evident, having never conceded more than five points to Kenya outside the SVNS series.
Their previous meetings in the Commonwealth Games include a 27-5 victory in Delhi (2010), a 33-5 win on the Gold Coast (2018), and a narrow 7-5 win in Birmingham (2022).
Recent SVNS encounters between these teams have been closely contested, with five of the past seven matches decided by a margin of seven points or less.
A turnaround for Shujaa
Kenya Sevens faced a period of adversity, culminating in their relegation from the World Rugby Sevens Series in May last year.
The team was written off after a string of poor performances and the declining form of star players like Alvin ‘Buffa’ Otieno, Billy Odhiambo, and Nelson Oyoo.
However, a change in leadership and an infusion of young talent has revitalized Shujaa.
Under the strategic guidance of Kevin ‘Bling’ Wambua, Shujaa clinched the African Sevens title, qualified for the Paris Olympics, and earned promotion back to the World Rugby Sevens Series.
The leadership of captain Vincent Onyala has been pivotal, instilling renewed belief and hope within the team.
Onyala, speaking after Wambua announced ten new faces in the squad for Paris, expressed optimism despite being the underdogs in their pool.
“Kenyans should prepare to watch one of the most thrilling rugby in Paris this year. This young team is made up of energy, passion, determination, and hunger for success, values that have helped the team grow since last year,” Onyala stated.
The new faces of Shujaa
The squad features several newcomers, including speedster Patrick Odongo, John Okoth, George Ooro, Samuel Asati, Nygel Amaitsa, Kevin Wekesa, Chrisant Ojwang, Brian Tanga, Anthony Omondi, and Lamech Ambetsa.
Only Onyala and Herman Humwa have Olympic experience, having participated in the delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Onyala acknowledged the challenge ahead but remained confident in the team’s abilities.
“It won’t be an easy show for Shujaa. We already know that, but let the world not write us off. This team has grown their style of play and the talent we have is amazing. We know we will do well at the Olympics,” he added.
As Shujaa prepares to take on heavyweights Argentina, Australia, and Samoa in the preliminary stages, the spirit within the team is one of determination and resilience.
The young squad is eager to showcase their talent on the grand stage of the Olympics, aiming to defy the odds and make a significant impact in Paris.
