Kenya Shujaa Open Hong Kong SVNS Campaign with Stunning Victory over USA

Kenya Shujaa announced their arrival at the HSBC SVNS World Championship in emphatic fashion, defeating the United States 17-10 in their opening Pool match at Hong Kong's state-of-the-art Kai Tak Stadium. The victory — Kenya's first competitive win at the 50th anniversary edition of the Hong Kong Sevens — secured a place in the Cup quarter-finals and reignited hopes of a strong showing on the global stage.

Tries from Daniel Taabu and Vincent Onyala in the first half gave Kenya a commanding 12-0 lead at the break. The Americans clawed back with a converted try early in the second period, but substitute Bush Mwale sealed the deal with a lightning counter-attack try that brought the Kenyan contingent in the 50,000-seat arena to their feet.

Head coach Kevin Wambua praised the squad's defensive intensity, which has been a focus since their relegation to SVNS Division 2 last season. The Hong Kong leg represents Kenya's shot at proving they belong among the elite, and this opening result sets the tone. Shujaa next faced South Africa in a tough Cup quarter-final, where the experience of the Blitzboks proved a stiff test.

The Hong Kong Sevens, celebrating its golden jubilee at the new Kai Tak Sports Park venue, has drawn record crowds this year. For Kenyan fans, the tournament holds special significance — it was here in the early 2000s that Shujaa first captured the imagination of the rugby world with their fearless, attacking style.

Back home, the Kenya Cup semi-finals are set for April 25 in Kakamega and Ruaraka, adding to what is shaping up to be a bumper month for Kenyan rugby. With the SVNS World Championship running alongside the domestic knockout stage, fans have plenty to cheer about as Shujaa look to reclaim their place in the top tier of world sevens rugby.