Kenya Lionesses put Madagascar to the sword in Rugby Africa Cup opener

The national rugby 15s women's team, Kenya Lionesses, began their 2025 Rugby Africa Cup campaign in dominant fashion following a convincing 28-5 win over hosts Madagascar in a match played on Saturday, 7 June at Stade Makis in Antananarivo.

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The victory, masterminded by head coach Simon Odongo, marked a perfect start for the Lionesses as they chase a coveted spot at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup.

It also served as sweet revenge for last year’s narrow 29-22 loss to the Lady Makis in the same competition.

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The Lionesses also played Madagascar in a September 2024 friendly in Nairobi, where they won 63-19. They were looking to keep the fine form going.

The first half was a cagey affair with both teams testing each other’s defensive lines. Kenya struck first through Phoebe Akinyi’s try, which was converted by Sinaida Nyachio.

The Lady Makis responded in the 37th minute as Hanitriniaina powered over for Madagascar's only try of the match.

However, the missed conversion meant Kenya held a 12-5 lead heading into halftime.

Kenya came back breathing fire in the second half, nearly scoring in the sixth minute, only for a refereeing decision to deny them.

But their pressure was relentless. Stella Wafula and Sinaida Nyachio combined to set up Faith Livoi for Kenya’s third try, though Grace Adhiambo’s conversion attempt fell short.

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As Madagascar grew desperate to stay in the game, they committed an infringement that allowed Adhiambo to slot in a penalty and extend Kenya’s lead.

She followed it up with a well-taken drop goal, pushing the scores further beyond Madagascar’s reach.

Madagascar's seamless and quick passes tested Kenya's pace, but the Lionesses' physicality and tactical discipline gave them the edge.

When Madagascar mishandled a kick, Kenya produced a string of sharp passes that saw Stellah Wafula touch down, with Adhiambo adding the extras.

The game closed in dramatic style. With the hooter gone and a Lady Makis player receiving first aid, Kenya refused to wind down.

From a ruck, fullback Sinaida Nyachio sliced through to score the final try. The conversion was off target, but the damage was already done, with Kenya emerging victorious.

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The Lionesses now shift focus to a high-stakes clash against South Africa, set for Wednesday, 11 June.

Madagascar, meanwhile, will seek redemption against Uganda on the same day.