Kenya Sevens kept their HSBC SVNS World Championship promotion hopes alive with a spirited 17–10 victory over the United States in their final Pool C match at Hong Kong, securing a place in the quarter-finals at Kai Tak Sports Park.
After a difficult start to their campaign, where Shujaa suffered back-to-back defeats to Australia and New Zealand, Kevin Wambua’s side came into the clash knowing only a strong response would keep their journey alive. They delivered exactly that, showing resilience, composure, and timely execution when it mattered most.
Kenya had an early opportunity to settle nerves, but Denis Abukuse was unable to ground the ball after a promising break, letting the chance slip away. The USA quickly punished that miss, with Ben Broselle powering past Floyd Wabwire to open the scoring. Lucas Lacamp then extended the American lead after collecting an offload and finishing strongly, giving the USA a 10–0 advantage.
Shujaa, however, refused to fade. John Okoth sparked the comeback with a well-taken try after linking up in a flowing move involving Kevin Okoth. The successful conversion reduced the deficit to 10–7 and shifted momentum back in Kenya’s favour heading into halftime.
The second half saw a renewed and more physical Kenyan approach. Abukuse made amends for his earlier knock-on by powering over for a crucial try, edging Shujaa into a 12–10 lead despite the missed conversion.
With the game finely poised, Kenya found another gear. Samuel Asati combined smartly with Nygel Amaitsa, who finished superbly in the corner to extend the lead to 17–10. From there, Shujaa showed defensive discipline and composure, shutting down late USA pressure to seal a vital victory.
The result means Kenya advance to the quarter-finals as the second-best third-placed team, keeping their tournament hopes alive after a testing pool stage. Argentina progressed ahead of them with six points, but Shujaa’s late surge ensured qualification to the knockout rounds.
For Wambua and his charges, the win is more than just progression, it is a statement of character after early setbacks. The focus now shifts to the quarter-finals, where they play continental rivals Springbok as their push for HSBC SVNS 1 promotion gathers momentum and fresh belief..
Quarter-Final parings
