In a heart-stopping finale at the Mandela National Stadium, Zimbabwe’s national rugby team, the Sables, clinched their spot in the Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia, ending a 36-year drought with a dramatic 32-30 victory over Namibia in the Rugby Africa Men’s Cup final.
The win not only secured Zimbabwe’s place on the global stage but also marked a successful defense of their title in a fiercely contested match.The Sables’ triumph was a testament to their grit, teamwork, and ambition. “We want to go there and compete and put Zimbabwe on the map,” said player of the match Godfrey Muzanargwo, whose standout performance, including a crucial try, helped seal the victory.
Muzanargwo credited the team’s success to the unwavering support from fans back home, dedicated coaching staff, and the relentless spirit of his teammates.The final was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams trading blows in a high-octane clash.
Zimbabwe surged ahead early, but Namibia refused to back down, leveling the score at 16-16 by halftime. The second half saw Zimbabwe take control with tries from Muzanargwo and Brandon Mudzekenyedzi, only for Namibia to stage a late comeback, narrowing the gap to just two points in the dying moments.
The match reached its climax in the 79th minute when Namibia’s Tiaan Swanepoel lined up a potential game-winning penalty, only to see it sail just wide, sparking wild celebrations among the Sables and their supporters.
While Zimbabwe celebrates their historic qualification, Namibia still has a shot at the World Cup. They will face the United Arab Emirates in an Asia/Africa play-off next Saturday, with the winner advancing to the Final Qualification Tournament in November.
Elsewhere at the Rugby Africa Men’s Cup, Algeria claimed third place with a 15-5 victory over Kenya, while Senegal edged out Morocco 33-28 in a thrilling fifth-place final. Hosts Uganda secured their place in the competition with a commanding 37-17 win over Ivory Coast, avoiding relegation.
For Zimbabwe, this victory is more than a ticket to Australia—it’s a chance to showcase their talent and determination on the world stage. As Muzanargwo put it, the Sables are ready to make their mark in 2027.Stay tuned for more updates on Zimbabwe’s Rugby World