Kenya 7s secured a crucial 17-14 victory over Tonga at Estadio Charrúa in Montevideo, Uruguay, thereby qualifying for the Challenger Series quarterfinals.
Seeking redemption after a disappointing loss to Georgia, Shujaa put up a determined performance to secure their spot in the quarterfinals.
Kenya 7s lead
The opening moments saw a brilliant offload set up John Okoth, who dashed past Tonga’s defence to score a centre-post try. Tony Omondi successfully converted, giving Kenya 7s a 7-0 lead.
Shujaa extended their lead when Lamec Ambetsa broke through on the right wing and passed the ball to Nygel Amaitsa, who set up Omondi for a try at the right corner.
It was after Tonga’s Semisi Maasi received a yellow card, reducing them to six players.
Tonga managed to narrow the gap just before halftime after a series of penalties, with Siaosi Huihui powering through for a converted try.
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After the break, Tonga capitalized on Kenya’s defensive lapse, with Sione Tupou scoring a converted try while Ambetsa received a yellow card for his tackle.
However, Kenya responded with a crucial try from Amaitsa, who dove over the try line after Benson Salem set him up with a well-executed switch in play.
Despite Tonga’s efforts, Kenya 7s held on to secure the win, finishing second in the pool with six points, behind Portugal, who accumulated seven points.
Kenya will face the Pool C winner at 01:55 on Sunday.
