Zimbabwe have qualified for the Men’s Rugby World Cup for the first time since 1991 after edging Namibia 30–28 in a classic Rugby Africa Cup final at Namboole Stadium in Kampala, Uganda. The result ended Namibia’s long-standing dominance in African rugby and booked Zimbabwe a place at Australia 2027, their first World Cup appearance in 34 years.
It was a performance full of heart, discipline, and clinical finishing by the Sables, who matched Namibia’s physicality and outwitted them with smart play in key moments. Zimbabwe’s centre Kudzai Mashawi crossed the line twice, while Brandon Mudzekenyedzi added a crucial try with a piercing breakaway run that stunned the Namibian defence.
Flyhalf Ian Prior was once again instrumental, contributing 15 points from the boot and controlling the tempo with the poise of a veteran. The 34-year-old was later named Player of the Tournament. Lock Godfrey Muzanargwo put in a colossal shift in the engine room and was voted man-of-the-match for his dominance in the lineouts and breakdowns.
Namibia, led by captain Prince Goaseb, fought back in the second half with two tries that kept the game on a knife’s edge until the final whistle. But the Sables’ defence held firm, and at full time, it was jubilation for Zimbabwe, who become the second African team to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup after South Africa.
It marks Zimbabwe’s third appearance at the global tournament, having featured in 1987 by invitation and in 1991 through qualification. For Namibia, who had qualified for seven straight World Cups since 1999, the loss means they must now go through a playoff route and will face the United Arab Emirates in Kampala for a second chance at keeping their World Cup streak alive.
In the day’s earlier match, hosts Uganda produced a dominant display to secure their top-tier status with a resounding 37-point victory over Ivory Coast, who have now been relegated. Uganda’s passionate home support was rewarded with a statement win that reaffirmed their ambitions in African rugby.
Zimbabwe’s triumph marks a turning point in the continent’s rugby landscape and brings new energy to African representation on the world stage. The journey to Australia begins now, for the first time in a generation, the Sables are back among rugby’s elite.
