Kenya’s national rugby sevens team, Shujaa, came agonizingly close to clinching their second-ever Singapore 7s title, but ultimately fell 21-12 to a clinical Fiji side in a gripping final on Sunday.
Despite the disappointment has sparked optimism among fans and pundits, especially as the team continues to battle for survival in the HSBC SVNS series.
After missing out on a top-eight finish heading into the Grand Finale, Shujaa’s campaign in Singapore has been viewed as a turning point.
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Harambee Stars midfielder Anthony has given reasons why Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy will soon surprise many after what he has seen from the South African legend.
Remarkably, the Kenyan side did not concede a single point in the first half of any of their matches during the tournament, a testament to their growing defensive discipline under
“Yes. Lots of positives. #Shujaa finished the tournament without conceding a single point in the first half in all their Singapore games. Coaching staff are getting it right. A lot to build on. Over the last couple of years #Kenya7s have beaten almost all the big teams,” wrote one user on X, formerly Twitter.
Another fan praised the tactical and physical evolution of the team, writing, “Kevin Wambua has built a monster. Shujaa is so good defensively, just a little experience and we are good to win the #HSBCSVNS league next year. Go Go #Kenya7s.”
Mohammed Bajaber is reported to be attracting interest from clubs abroad and he has been told the most suitable European countries that will not waste his talents.
The turnaround in form is especially significant considering from the world series.
For many supporters, the journey from battling to stay in the top flight to reaching a cup final represents meaningful progress.
While the threat of relegation still looms, Kenya’s gritty performance in Singapore has reignited belief that a continued stay in the top tier of international rugby sevens is within reach and perhaps, even more titles in the future.