It was all cheers and jubilation at the Sevens Stadium in Dubai on Saturday, January 13, as Kenya Shujaa and Lionesses showcased a rare combination of skill and talent, securing slots in the semifinals of the Challenger Series.Shujaa narrowly defeated Japan 21-19, while Lionesses saw off Czechia 22-12.##NAJAVA_MECA_7796442##The spirited Shujaa staged a second-half comeback to overcome determined Japan.Japan was the first to strike in the opening minutes of the game with a try from Kippei Taninaka. The conversion attempt was unsuccessful.The try served as a wake-up call for the Kenyans who relentlessly tackled their Japanese opponents, forcing them to remain in their danger zone.They played defensively, and soon it was youngster Nygel Amaitsa going over for Shujaa’s first try of the match. Tony Omondi was accurate with the conversion. His try was a rare show of brilliance, as it was a chase and kick situation, sending the Kenyan fans present into cheers.Japan would then respond with another unconverted five-pointer before the referee signaled halftime.NSL: Naivas, Mathare United pick vital winsKevin Wambua’s charges came in guns blazing in the final half, scoring 14 more points that humbled their opponents.KCB Rugby’s scrum-half Samuel Asati showcased individual brilliance from the scrum to score the second try for Shujaa. Omondi added the extras.The play was on, and minutes later, high-flying speedster Patrick Odongo caught the Japanese defense napping, and he did not hesitate to add five more points to the scoreboard. The try was also his sixth in the tournament. Omondi was accurate with the kick.In the dying minutes of the closing half, Festus Shiasi was sent to the naughty bin, but the Kenyans had already done the damage.Japan took advantage of the numerical advantage to score a converted try, which was not enough to put them ahead of the fierce Shujaa.With that performance, Shujaa has booked a slot in the semifinals of the tournament.The Lionesses, on the other hand, earned their revenge after outclassing their Czechian opponents 22-12.The match was a repeat of their second pool match where Czechia outclassed the Kenyans 12-10.Naomi Amuguni scored a brace, with Sinaida Nyachio and Stella Wafula all adding their names to the scoresheet.The Lionesses will lock horns with Argentina in the semifinals.Kenya Morans squad for AfroBasket qualifiers, under new coach, named
