Kenya Simbas have been knocked out of the Rugby Africa Cup after a 20-12 loss at Nelson Mandela Stadium in Namboole.
This was a repeat of the 2022 Rugby Africa Cup semi-final, which the Simbas won 36-33 in France to reach the final.
Kenya Simbas concede
It was a seesaw contest in the opening minutes, with Algeria garnering the first points through Julien Serge Caminati in the fourth minute before Timothy Okwemba missed his penalty attempt.
Kenya Simbas huddle before a past training session. PHOTO/Uganda Rugby Union
The Simbas missed crucial attacking line-outs but fought on to score through vice-captain Eugene Sifuna, who scored a try from close range after a ruck just before the tryline. Okwemba added the extras for a 7-3 lead.
Algeria pulled back in style as Fares Leulmi Pierre Boulkenafet sidestepped his marker and released the ball to Thomas Patrick Lacroix, who scored for an 8-7 lead.
The Simbas responded as Beldad Ogeta scored another impressive solo effort try, which saw him beat several markers to touch down and reclaim a 12-8 lead.
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In the second half, Caminati drilled in two penalties for a 14-12 lead. Algeria had several chances to push forward but failed to utilize their opportunities to score another try.
Kenya Simbas concede late
Just before the 70th minute, Caminati drilled in another penalty for a 17-12 lead.
Kenya Simbas train at Kyadondo. Photo/Uganda Rugby Union
In the 78th minute, Caminati drilled in yet another penalty, sealing a 20-12 victory for Algeria.
Kenya Simbas will face the loser of the second semifinal in the third place playoffs.
