The Zimbabwe Sables are poised to make history as they face Namibia in the Rugby Africa Cup final on Saturday, July 19, at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Nambole, Kampala. A win would not only bring continental pride but also secure a spot in the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Sydney, a tournament Zimbabwe hasn’t participated in since 1991.
The Sables will face a formidable opponent in Namibia, who have been unbeaten in World Cup qualification for three decades. Namibia has a strong team, including overseas-based stars, making this a true test of the Sables’ progress.
The Sables have recent history on their side, having stunned Namibia with a 32-10 victory in 2024. However, it’s worth noting that Namibia might have fielded a weaker team that year. This time, with World Cup qualification at stake, the Namibians are expected to bring their full strength.
Sables Head Coach Pieter Benade acknowledged Namibia’s strength, saying, “Namibia are a very tough opponent, and history shows that they have had it over Zimbabwe.” The Sables will need to be at their best to overcome the Namibians and achieve their goal.
