For the first time since the introduction of rugby in the Olympics, the Kenya Lionesses will not be participating in the Paris Olympics following a 24-7 loss to Japan in Monaco.
Heading into this crucial match, both sides were vying for Olympic qualification, with the Lionesses aiming for their third consecutive Olympic appearance following their 2016 and 2021 participations.
Kenya Lionesses tough task
In 2024, China had proven to be a dominant force, with the Kenya Lionesses being the only team to defeat them in the Challenger Series.
Kenya Lionesses stella Wafula tackled. PHOTO/ Rugby Afrique/Facebook
Despite a two-minute possession at the start of the game, the Lionesses were unable to capitalize. When China gained possession, Chen Keyi scored, and Gu Yaoyao converted, giving China a 7-0 lead.
Dennis Mwanja’s side quickly responded as MIE Pearls Women’s Rugby Football Club duo Grace Okullo and Janet Okello combined for a try. Okullo made a break on the left wing before cutting in to set up Okello, who raced for a center post try, evening the score at 7-7.
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However, China scored again after the first-half hooter with Keyi crossing over, securing a 12-7 lead at halftime. Sun Yue extended the lead immediately after the break, making it 17-7.
Yaoyao returned to the scoresheet, sealing the game and putting it out of reach for the Kenya Lionesses.
Kenya Lionesses stella Wafula tackled. PHOTO/ Rugby Afrique/Facebook
The women’s Olympic lineup now includes New Zealand, Australia, Ireland, and the USA as the top four qualifiers through the 2023 World Series, along with hosts France. They are joined by Brazil, Canada, Great Britain, South Africa, Fiji, and Japan as regional qualification tournament winners in the women’s tournament.
