Kenya Lionesses have a mountain to climb in the next two World Rugby Tier two 7’s tournaments in Uruguay and Brazil.

A fifth finish at the opening tournament in Nairobi, Kenya on February 15, 2026 means they must win all their matches in Montevideo to revive their campaign to finish among the top four teams. At the moment it is Argentina, South Africa and Spain who appear unbeatable.

Simon Odongo, the team’s coach, believes the team can come back and qualify for the championship. In an interview with the Kenya Rugby Union website, the coach assured that the technical deficiencies that were prevalent in the first leg have been sufficiently addressed.

Narrow Losses

In Nairobi, Kenya Lionesses were restricted to narrow losses by the opponents, a factor which may affect their progress in the event of finishing with the same number of points with other teams in the chase. 

Grace Okulu, a former captain of the team will not be in South America opting to stay with his club side in France. In her absence, Christabel Lindo and Faith Livoi who missed the first leg have been included. Judith Auma returns from injury to reclaim her place in the team.

Quality Sides

The impact of these players will be tested against quality sides especially in the first match against China who are gunning for a return to the top tier. In Nairobi, China did not fire on all cylinders and are keen to improve on their overall fourth position. 

Kenya Lionesses have three tough matches on the opening day against China, Argentina and Spain before an African derby against South Africa and hosts Brazil on the second day.

Squad: Naomi Amuguni, Christabel Lindo, Sheila Chajira, Stella Wafula, Faith Livoi, Judith Auma, Edith Nariaka, Sinaida Nyachio, Moreen Muritu, Janet Okelo, Freshia Oduor, Marvel Oswago, Charity Nillah.

Fixtures

Saturday, March 21, 2026: China v Kenya, South Africa v Spain, Argentina v Brazil, South Africa v China, Spain v Brazil, Argentina v Kenya, South Africa v Brazil, Spain v Kenya, Argentina v China, 

Sunday, March 22, 2026: China v Brazil, South Africa v Kenya, Argentina v Spain, Kenya v Brazil. Spain v China, Argentina v South Africa,  Standing: Argentina 20, South Africa 18, Spain 16, China 14, Kenya 12, Brazil 10.