Algeria Edge Kenya in Hard-Fought Rugby Africa Cup Battle

Kenya’s Simbas fell short against Algeria in a tense Rugby Africa Cup fixture, going down 15-5 in a bruising encounter that tested both sides’ grit and resolve.

The North Africans got off to a flying start, scoring a try within the opening minute to take a 5-0 lead and immediately putting the Simbas on the back foot. However, Kenya responded swiftly through Teddy Akala, who powered over the line from a well-worked scrum to level the scores at 5-5. Brian Wahinya, unfortunately, missed the conversion that could have nudged Kenya ahead.

Algeria regained the lead moments later, capitalizing on sustained pressure in Kenya’s half to cross over for another try. With the conversion successful, they went 12-5 up. Despite being reduced to 13 men following two yellow cards late in the half, Algeria held firm to head into the break with a seven-point advantage.

The second half was a cagey affair, with both teams making defensive adjustments. Algeria managed to slot in a crucial drop goal midway through the half, extending their lead to 15-5. Kenya pushed hard for a comeback, but handling errors and Algeria’s structured defence denied them any further points.

Speaking after the match, Kenya captain Elkeans Musonye remained proud of the team’s effort despite the defeat:

“It was a tough game, playoff matches are always hard.We started slow but showed fight to come back. Unfortunately, we couldn’t take our chances, especially in the second half. Credit to Algeria, they were clinical. We’ll learn from this and keep pushing forward for the badge and the fans in the next qualifier.”

“It’s a hard feeling to say this, for now we are going back to our families, cool off abit then we see what’s next” he voiced.