Kenya Sevens delivered a statement of intent in São Paulo, turning promise into tangible reward as they officially secured qualification for the Sevens World Championship playoff with a commanding day one performance.

Coming into the final leg with back-to-back third-place finishes, Shujaa knew consistency alone would not be enough. In Brazil, they have added authority to their game, blending structure, pace, and clinical finishing to underline their status among the top contenders in Division Two.

Vincent Onyala has been at the center of this surge. Powerful, direct, and decisive in key moments, he has already crossed the tryline four times in the tournament, driving Kenya forward with every touch. Alongside him, Patrick Odongo has maintained his sharp edge, adding three tries of his own as Shujaa’s attacking rhythm continues to click at the right time.

This attacking efficiency, combined with improved defensive discipline, has now secured Kenya a place in the Sevens World Championship qualification series, set to be staged across Hong Kong, Valladolid, and Bordeaux in May and June. It is a significant milestone for the side, confirming their steady rise across the three legs and reinforcing their push towards the elite level.

Even with qualification secured, the job in São Paulo is not done. Matches against the United States and Uruguay still lie ahead at 5.44pm and 8.34pm EAT respectively today, offering Shujaa a chance to strengthen their standing and carry momentum into the global playoff stage. The focus now shifts from chasing qualification to sharpening their edge against top-tier opposition.

The Kenya Lionesses have also produced a spirited response in São Paulo, keeping their hopes alive after a difficult start to the series. Having struggled in Nairobi and finished last in Montevideo, the pressure coming into this leg was immense.

They did not begin on the front foot, falling 19–12 to Argentina, but the response that followed spoke volumes about their character. Against South Africa, the Lionesses showed control and purpose, with Janet Okelo striking early and Freshia Oduor adding another to seal a 14–5 victory. It was a performance built on discipline and belief.

That confidence carried into their clash with Spain, where Kenya’s attack came alive. Freshia Oduor struck early, Naomi Amuguni added another, and Okelo’s brace ensured the Lionesses closed out a 24–17 win. It was their most complete attacking display of the series and a timely reminder of their potential.

Those results have placed the Lionesses within reach of a place in the World Championship qualification bracket. The path remains clear but demanding. Wins against China (6.06 Pm and Brazil(10.02 Pm) on the final day, coupled with favorable standings, could see them break into the required positions. After a challenging campaign, São Paulo has offered them a lifeline and a chance to redefine their season.

As the final day unfolds, both teams stand at different but equally significant crossroads. Shujaa have already achieved their primary objective and now seek to finish strong, while the Lionesses must deliver under pressure to keep their long-term ambitions alive.

Sunday in São Paulo will not just conclude a tournament, it could define the trajectory of Kenya’s sevens rugby on the global stage.

Day One Results – São Paulo HSBC SVNS Division Two

Kenya Sevens (Men)
Saturday 28 March

Kenya 38–7 Germany
Kenya 12–14 Belgium
Kenya 40–0 Canada

Kenya Lionesses (Women)
Saturday 28 March.

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