Kenya Lionesses Miss Out on Olympic Rugby Qualification Following Defeat to China

By Mahlon Lichuma
The Kenya Lionesses will not be making their anticipated third consecutive Olympic appearance in rugby after a disappointing 24-7 loss to China in a crucial qualification match in Monaco. This defeat marks a significant setback for the team, which had participated in the 2016 and 2021 Olympic Games.

Both teams entered the match with high stakes, vying for the final Olympic qualification spot available at the tournament scheduled for July 4 in France. The Kenya Lionesses, led by coach Dennis Mwanja, were hopeful despite the stiff competition, as they had been the only team to beat China in the Challenger Series earlier in the 2024 season.

The Lionesses started strong, controlling possession in the opening minutes but struggled to convert their efforts into points. China seized their opportunities effectively, with Chen Keyi opening the scoring and Gu Yaoyao converting, giving China an early 7-0 lead.

Kenya responded swiftly. The dynamic duo from MIE Pearls Women’s Rugby Football Club, Grace Okullo and Janet Okello, orchestrated a brilliant play. Okullo broke through the left wing before passing to Okello, who dashed to the center for a pivotal try. A successful conversion tied the score at 7-7, rekindling Kenya’s hopes.

However, China demonstrated their resolve and strategic prowess. Just before halftime, Keyi secured her second try, restoring China’s lead at 12-7. The second half saw China maintain their momentum. Sun Yue extended the lead to 17-7, and Yaoyao later added another try, sealing the game at 24-7 and dashing the Lionesses’ Olympic dreams.

This result finalizes the women’s Olympic rugby lineup, featuring New Zealand, Australia, Ireland, and the USA, the top four qualifiers from the 2023 World Series. Host nation France, alongside Brazil, Canada, Great Britain, South Africa, Fiji, and Japan, secured their spots through respective regional qualification tournaments.

For the Kenya Lionesses, this loss is a tough pill to swallow, marking an end to their Olympic journey this season. Coach Mwanja and his team will now reflect on their campaign and prepare for future opportunities, as they continue to build on their legacy in women’s rugby.