HSBC SVNS 2: Kenya Lionesses fight back to defeat Brazil in women’s category
Kenya’s women’s national rugby sevens side, Kenya Lionesses, launched their campaign at the HSBC SVNS 2 in dramatic fashion, overturning a deficit to register a narrow 15-12 win over Brazil at Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday morning, February 14, 2026.
Although Kenya dictated the early tempo, it was Brazil who drew first blood. Thalia Costa capitalised on space down the left channel, sprinting past her marker to score, with Maysa Fernandes adding the conversion for a 7-0 advantage.
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Brazil doubled their lead soon after when Bianca Silva collected a well-timed offload on the right wing and burst through the defence to make it 12-0. Facing an uphill task, the Lionesses regrouped before halftime.
Janet Okello produced a dazzling run along the touchline, slicing through Brazil’s defence to touch down and reduce the gap to 12-5 at the break.
Kenya returned from the interval with renewed intensity. Within moments, Stellah Wafula finished off a flowing move initiated by Sheila Chajira, powering over despite heavy pressure.
Though the conversion attempt was unsuccessful, the deficit was trimmed to just two points at 12-10. With the clock winding down, Kenya seized control. A quick tap by Okello unsettled the Brazilian defence before she released Naomi Amuguni, who crossed the whitewash for the decisive try. The conversion missed, but the hosts had done enough to secure a 15-12 triumph and ignite their home tournament.
The Lionesses now turn their attention to their next fixture against China at 12:47 pm, where they will aim to sharpen their attacking combinations and build momentum from their gritty opening victory.
Other Round One results
Elsewhere, powerhouse South Africa edged Spain 14-12 in a closely contested encounter, while Argentina began their campaign strongly with a 20-10 win over China.
Saturday results
China 7s 10-20 Argentina 7s
Spain 7s 12-14 South Africa 7s
Brazil 7s 12-15 Kenya 7s
