In a thrilling quarterfinal clash of the Rugby Africa Cup 2024, the Zimbabwe Sables narrowly defeated the Uganda Rugby Cranes 22-20. Uganda’s bid to capitalize on home advantage fell short as Zimbabwe opened the scoring with an early try by Edward Sigauke, followed by a successful conversion from Ian Prior for a 7-0 lead. Zimbabwe extended their advantage to 22-0 by halftime.
After the break, Uganda’s coach Fred Mudoola made tactical substitutions, bringing on Joseph Aredo and Alex Aturinda. Uganda’s Philip Wokorach added a penalty, a try, and two conversions, putting pressure on Zimbabwe. Despite their spirited second-half performance, Uganda couldn’t close the gap.
Coach Mudoola lamented, “We are not happy that we only played well in the second half. It is a disappointing defeat in front of our home fans.”
In the upcoming semifinals, Namibia will compete against Zimbabwe, while Kenya will face Algeria. Uganda will play Burkina Faso, and Senegal will challenge Cote d’Ivoire in the classification matches. The Rugby Africa Cup final is scheduled for July 28.
