Sables face old foes in Africa Cup semi-finals
STAFF WRITER
The Sables will renew their long-standing rivalry with Kenya in the semi-finals of the Rugby Africa Cup on Sunday after the defending champions stormed into the last four with a resounding 43-8 victory over Morocco in Kampala, Uganda.
The Zimbabwean senior men’s rugby team produced a dominant display to launch their title defence in emphatic fashion, showcasing clinical execution across all phases of play.
Their commanding win not only reaffirmed their status as tournament favourites but also moved them one step closer to qualifying for the 2026 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Man of the match Ina Prior delivered a masterclass in game management, achieving 100% kicking accuracy with a combination of conversions and penalties that kept the scoreboard ticking and the pressure on Morocco. His composure and precision underpinned Zimbabwe’s dominance in both territory and possession.
The Sables’ forwards laid a powerful foundation, controlling the set pieces through relentless scrummaging and pinpoint lineouts, while the backline dazzled with structured attacks that repeatedly breached Morocco’s defence.
“This was a strong start, but we are not getting carried away,” said head coach Piet Benade. “There’s still a long road ahead, and the boys know the job is not yet done.”
The victory has now set up a high-stakes semi-final clash against Kenya, who edged hosts Uganda 32-24 in a fiercely contested East African derby on Sunday. The semi-final promises to be a thrilling encounter between two traditional powerhouses of African rugby, with both sides eyeing a spot in the final and a ticket to the global stage.
The Sables, who boast a squad laced with players competing in elite leagues in South Africa and Europe, have blended physicality with flair to craft a fearsome, high-tempo brand of rugby. Their performance against Morocco sent a clear message: Zimbabwe are not just defending their crown — they’re hungry to build a legacy.
With confidence soaring and momentum on their side, the Sables are now just two wins away from continental glory and a return to the Rugby World Cup.
