Kenya Simbas Edge Uganda to Book Semi-Final Spot in 2025 Rugby Africa Cup

Kenya Simbas have progressed to the semi-finals of the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup after beating Uganda Rugby Cranes 32-24 in an exciting encounter that took place at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Naambole, Uganda on Tuesday afternoon.

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The Simbas drew first blood in the 20th minute through Griffin Chao, who finished off a slick move initiated by captain George Nyambua.

 Chao danced past two defenders before touching down, though the conversion attempt went wide.

Kenya’s momentum continued as Barry Robson Young crossed the whitewash in the 34th minute. The try was set up by a brilliant piece of play from Jone Kubu, who attracted three defenders before offloading to Young for an easy finish.

Uganda responded through Aaron Ofoyrwoth, who caught Kenya off-guard following a line-out and slotted home a converted try. 

The first half ended with Kenya holding a slender 12-7 lead.

The second half began with tension rising. Kenya’s Patrick Sabatia was subbed off in the 44th minute after a head injury, replaced by Ernest Obat Kuke. Uganda capitalized soon after with a successful penalty, narrowing the gap to 12-10.

But Kenya responded in the 60th minute, with George Nyambua powering over from a maul for a converted try that restored breathing room. Minutes later, Griffin Chao bagged his second try of the match, showcasing great pace and awareness to extend Kenya's lead.

Uganda, however, were not done. Philip Wokoraj pulled one back after a sweeping move across the field, and Byron Oketayot brought the Cranes within striking distance after latching onto a kick from winger Adrian Kisito, who beat Samuel Asati in a foot race.

With the scores tight and time running out, it was Barry Young who sealed the win for Kenya with a composed drop goal in the dying minutes, extending the score to 32-24 and putting the game beyond Uganda’s reach.

Kenya's tactical discipline, attacking flair, and key individual performances — particularly from Griffin Chao, Barry Young, and George Nyambua — ensured their passage to the final four.