Kenya Lionesses’ late surge at the HSBC SVNS Division Two leg in São Paulo ultimately proved a case of too little, too late, as their spirited run ended just short of World Championship Series despite a vastly improved showing.

Arriving in Brazil, the Lionesses were already under pressure after a difficult series campaign. A fifth place finish in Nairobi, and a last place outing in Montevideo had left Simon Odongo’s side with no margin for error. The equation was clear, only winning the São Paulo leg would keep their qualification hopes alive.

After a slow start that saw them fall 19–12 to Argentina, the response that followed spoke volumes about their character. Against South Africa, the Lionesses played with control and purpose as Janet Okelo struck early before Freshia Oduor added another to seal a 14–5 victory. That momentum carried into their clash with Spain, where Kenya’s attack came alive; Oduor opened the scoring, Naomi Amuguni added another, and Okelo’s brace secured a 24–17 win over Spain in a performance built on discipline and belief.

Sunday then began in emphatic fashion as Kenya dismantled China 46–0, their most dominant display of the series, with Oduor running in four tries, Faith Livoi adding two, and both Marvelous Oswaga and Okelo also getting on the scoresheet to keep their dream alive heading into the decisive clash.

But with everything on the line against Brazil, the hosts rose to the occasion. Kenya competed strongly, but a 24–12 defeat brought their qualification hopes to an end, confirming that the target of winning the leg would remain out of reach.

Even so, the Lionesses leave São Paulo with a silver medal, a significant improvement that underlined their growth after a challenging start to the campaign. Across the weekend, they rediscovered their attacking rhythm, showed greater defensive discipline, and played with renewed confidence.

While the ultimate goal slipped away, the progress was evident. From the struggles in Nairobi and Montevideo to a runners up finish in Brazil, the Lionesses’ trajectory points upward, offering encouragement as they look ahead to future competitions.

Final table standings after the 3 Legs.

Full Results, Kenya Lionesses, São Paulo HSBC SVNS Division Two

Saturday 28 March
Kenya 12–19 Argentina
Kenya 14–5 South Africa
Kenya 24–17 Spain

Sunday 29 March
Kenya 46–0 China
Kenya 12–24 Brazil