The Zimbabwe Sables have emerged as the 2024 Rugby Africa Cup Champions following a commanding 29-3 win over Algeria in the final played at Nelson Mandela Stadium in Namboole on Sunday.
Heading into the match, the Sables were riding high after defeating Namibia, who had claimed the title for six consecutive years, with an impressive performance in the semifinals.
Algeria, on the other hand, had a notable run themselves, having eliminated the Kenya Simbas, who had held the second spot for the last six editions, in their semifinal clash on Wednesday.
Zimbabwe Sables opener
Seeking to secure their second continental title, Zimbabwe opened the scoring when Trevor Gurwe cut through the defence and scored a center post try, which was successfully converted for a 7-0 lead.
Algeria responded with a penalty from Julien Serge Caminati, bringing the score to 7-3, before a tense period ensued with rising temperatures on the field.
Late in the first half, the Sables changed the scoreboard once again. Eight-man Aiden Burnett rose at the back of the scrum and attacked the blind side, linking up with Hilton Mudariki, who set up speedster Edward Sigauke for the second try, giving Zimbabwe a 12-3 lead at the break.
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Algeria hoped to maintain their record of not conceding in the second half, leading to a cagey start with both sides missing penalty attempts.
The Sables managed to add a three-pointer before scoring a try off a maul, extending their lead to 22-3. Zimbabwe sealed their victory with a final try in the dying minutes of the match through Keegan Joubert, concluding the game with a 29-3 win.
This victory marks Zimbabwe’s triumphant return to the top of African rugby, showcasing their dominance and skill throughout the tournament.
ZIMBABWE SABLE SQUAD
1 Victor Mupunga
2 Simba Mandioma
3 Bornwell Gwinji
4 Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa
5 Simba Siraha
6 Godfrey Muzanargwo
7 Dylan Utete
8 Aiden Burnett (VC)
9 Hilton Mudariki (C)
10 Tapiwa Mafura
11 Trevor Gurwe
12 Kudzai Mashawi
13 Brandon Mudzekenyedzi
14 Edward Sigauke
15 Takudzwa Musingwini
RESERVES
16 Liam Larkan
17 Zvikomborero Chimoto
18 Brian Makamure
19 David Makamba
20 Tadiwa Gwashu
21 Darell Makwasha
22 Keegan Joubert
23 Dion Khumalo
