HSBC SVNS2: Shujaa promotion quest on course despite narrow losses in Montevideo
By Luke Oluoch, March 23, 2026The Kenya Sevens national rugby team, Shujaa, remains on track in their quest for promotion despite mixed results during the Montevideo leg of the HSBC SVNS Series in Uruguay.
Coming off a third-place finish in the Nairobi leg, Kevin Wambua’s side secured two wins but suffered a narrow defeat against the USA and Germany (12-7), thus failing to close the gap on the two promotion-chasing frontrunners.
The USA, who previously beat Kenya in Nairobi, provided the first test on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
USA down Kenya in opener
Kenya started strong, crossing the whitewash for two tries. However, both went unconverted, a factor that ultimately tipped the balance in favour of the Americans.
David Still sparked the comeback for the USA, followed by Orrin Bizer, who touched down just before the break. With Will Chevalier converting both tries, the Eagles led 14–10 at halftime.
A scoreless second half ensured the US Eagles took the win, handing Shujaa a defeat in their opening assignment.
Despite the setback, Shujaa’s subsequent performances were marked by a resilient comeback. They secured crucial victories against Canada (19–5) and before rounding up their Montevideo stay with a convincing win over Belgium (20–0) to keep their campaign alive.
Germany vs US battle
The tournament eventually whittled down to a clash between the unbeaten USA and Germany. The USA extended their dominant run by defeating the Germans to clinch first place in Uruguay, officially securing their spot in the SVNS World Championship. Meanwhile, Germany—winners of the Nairobi leg—also advanced to the championship playoffs.
This leaves Kenya in third place and Uruguay in fourth, both well-positioned to claim the final two automatic qualification slots. Wambua’s charges travel to São Paulo, Brazil, this Monday, March 23, 2026.
The leg will be the final stop of the SVNS 2 tour to finalise their postseason destiny.