Rugby Africa Cup 2024 Final Set for Exciting Climax at Namboole

The Rugby Africa Cup 2024 climaxes on Sunday, July 28 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

The finale is the icing on the cake for 10 days of brilliant rugby activity both on and off the field.

Sunday’s final matchday will feature three games, just like the previous two matchdays. Burkina Faso, who are definitely giving themselves thumbs up following a brilliant performance play against Ivory Coast at 10 a.m. They play in the relegation play-off.

Both teams will be looking to avoid defeat and have a shot at the next edition. Of the eight teams participating in the Africa Cup, only seven will progress to next year’s edition. The eighth will be relegated, and both the Burkinabe and Ivorians know what’s at stake.

In the midday kickoff, hosts Uganda will look to solidify fifth place and cap a tournament they’ve blown hot and cold. The Cranes play a physical Senegal side. Despite the absence of showman Phillip Wokorach due to injury, coach Fred Mudoola has a squad that’s up for the challenge.

Sevens star Timothy Kisiga will run out at his natural fullback position in Wokorach’s absence. Kisiga, who has so far played on the wing, will leave it for Heathens back Joseph Oyet. Similarly, Mark Omoding starts ahead of Pirates’ Sidney Gongodyo at blindside flank.

Omoding had a brilliant cameo off the bench against Burkina Faso. Eliphaz Emong’s injury woes continue, and he misses the game. Similarly, Faraji Odugo is out of contention, and Nathan Bwambale will start at hooker. Notable changes on the bench include a possible senior team debut for Rhinos winger Arnold Ocen and Jjuko Jude.

At 2:00 p.m., neighbors Kenya take on defending champions Namibia in the third-place playoff. Despite being tipped to win the tournament, both the Simbas and Namibia have had an underwhelming performance in Kampala.

In the final, first-time finalists Algeria will look to upset an on-form Zimbabwe. With the absence of talisman Ian Prior, who has returned to Australia, the Sables expect a mountainous task in the final. Algeria had a disciplined performance against Kenya on Wednesday in the semi-final. On the other hand, Zimbabwe outclassed defending champions Namibia.

Algeria will be looking to win their first African gold, whereas Zimbabwe has been in this territory before.

Prior to the finale, all teams held Legacy Outreach programs with schools around Kampala. The programs involved a training session where they imparted rugby skills and principles to schools within the vicinity of rugby grounds around Kampala.