The Kenya Lionesses are gearing up for a crucial match against Madagascar on Friday, September 20, at the RFUEA Grounds. This highly anticipated game presents a vital opportunity for the Lionesses to exact revenge for their narrow 29-22 loss to Madagascar during the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup in May, which saw the island nation qualify for the prestigious WXV3 tournament in Dubai. However, for coach Dennis Mwanja and his squad, this match is more than just a rematch; it serves as critical preparation for the upcoming Safari 7s tournament and a step forward in their development as a team.
Importance of the Madagascar Clash
The upcoming fixture against Madagascar is not only an opportunity for the Lionesses to avenge their previous defeat, but it is also a strategic stepping stone in the team’s buildup to the Safari 7s, which will take place from October 11 to October 13. Head coach Dennis Mwanja has stressed the importance of the match, noting that it will allow the team to gauge its current form and address any weaknesses ahead of the major tournaments to come.
Mwanja’s squad selection reflects his intention to field a strong team. Seasoned players such as captain Natasha Emali, Sheila Chajira, and Moureen Muritu are expected to lead the Lionesses with their wealth of experience. Their inclusion is aimed at boosting the team’s chances of success, not just in this match but also in the future competitions.
Coach Dennis Mwanja’s Game Plan and Strategy
Speaking ahead of the match, Mwanja highlighted the importance of using this game as a key preparatory measure for the Safari 7s. “This match is crucial not only as a build-up for us but also as part of our larger strategy leading up to the Safari 7s. The energy in training has been exceptional, and we’re ready to showcase our physical, aggressive style of play,” he stated.
Mwanja’s focus on physicality is no surprise, as the Lionesses have historically excelled through their strength and intensity on the field. The coach is confident that returning to this style of play, coupled with tactical adjustments made in training, will improve the team’s performance compared to their previous encounter with Madagascar.
The Lionesses have taken key lessons from their last defeat, with Chajira stating that the team will look to avoid playing an overly open game, which contributed to their loss. Instead, the emphasis will be on solid defense and aggressive forward play, a trademark of Kenyan rugby that has historically brought the team success.
Key Players to Watch in the Match
The Lionesses have called upon some of their most experienced players for the clash against Madagascar, and their leadership and skills will be vital in guiding the team to victory.
- Natasha Emali – As captain, Emali’s leadership on and off the field is invaluable. She is a versatile player capable of making significant contributions in both attack and defense.
- Sheila Chajira – Known for her physicality and work rate, Chajira is expected to play a key role in enforcing the team’s aggressive game plan. Her ability to break through defenses will be crucial in gaining an advantage over Madagascar.
- Freshia Awino and Moureen Muritu – These two experienced players bring much-needed stability and tactical nous to the team. Their contributions will be critical in ensuring that the Lionesses maintain discipline and composure throughout the match.
The Importance of the Match for Kenya’s World Rugby Ranking
Beyond the immediate implications of the game, the match against Madagascar holds significance for the Kenya Lionesses in terms of their World Rugby ranking. A strong performance could help the team improve its standing in the global rankings, which is crucial for future participation in international tournaments.
Coach Mwanja has stressed the importance of securing a win, not just for morale, but also for positioning Kenya as a rising force in women’s rugby on the global stage. “A win here will give us the momentum we need heading into the Safari 7s and beyond. It’s not just about this match; it’s about our long-term goals for the team and for women’s rugby in Kenya,” Mwanja said.
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Building Toward the Safari 7s
The Safari 7s is one of the biggest rugby events on the Kenyan sporting calendar, and it is a tournament where the Lionesses have previously come close to glory. In last year’s edition, the Lionesses narrowly missed out on the title, losing 15-12 to Uganda’s Lady Cranes in the final.
This year, Mwanja is determined to ensure that the team is better prepared, and this match against Madagascar is a critical part of that preparation. The experience gained from facing a strong opponent like Madagascar will give the Lionesses valuable insights into what they need to refine before the Safari 7s.
The Evolution of Women’s Rugby in Kenya
Coach Mwanja also touched on the broader context of women’s rugby in Kenya. In recent years, the sport has gained increased recognition, thanks in part to the efforts of the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) to promote women’s participation. The introduction of new world rugby tiers has also created opportunities for women’s rugby teams to compete at higher levels, something Mwanja is keen to capitalize on.
“In recent years, women’s rugby had been underrated, but with the introduction of the new world rugby tiers, we need more women on board. As a union, we have set measures to ensure that all the major clubs in Kenya introduce women’s rugby before the start of the Kenya Cup season,” Mwanja noted.
Conclusion: A Crucial Test for the Lionesses
The match against Madagascar is a significant moment for the Kenya Lionesses, both as a chance for redemption and as a vital part of their preparation for future competitions. With experienced players like Natasha Emali and Sheila Chajira leading the charge, and Dennis Mwanja’s tactical acumen guiding the team, the Lionesses are well-positioned to put on a strong performance.
For the fans and the players alike, Friday’s match at RFUEA Grounds is a must-watch, not just for the rugby on display but for the long-term growth of women’s rugby in Kenya.
With so much at stake, the Kenya Lionesses are ready to showcase their physical, aggressive, and dynamic style of play as they seek victory over Madagascar and build momentum toward the Safari 7s.
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