With less than 48 hours left before the 2024 Rugby Africa Cup, scheduled from July 18th to 29th at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, and Mutesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku, the Senegal Lions have arrived in Uganda.
The 28-man squad features 20 France-based players and 7 from the domestic league as they target their first-ever African title. They are set to face the Kenya Simbas in their quarterfinal tie on Saturday at Namboole. Boasting a largely experienced squad, Senegal aims to leverage their physical presence for a formidable display.
The high-stakes matches in the tournament are part of the 2027 Rugby World Cup qualifiers, with all eight teams vying for the single available slot.
Reflecting on Saturday’s encounter, Lock Tony Lanauve said, “We won against Kenya the last time we played three years ago. They are a good team and we look forward to a good game.”
Prop Ousmane Ndiaye discussed his side’s readiness for the tournament, noting, “Senegalese rugby is under development, and our historical links with France have helped many of our players develop by playing there. We have had good preparations, but we do not know much about Kenya. We remain focused on our team and hope for a good start.”
The 2024 Rugby Africa Cup will feature eight teams, including hosts Uganda, Kenya, holders Namibia, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Zimbabwe, Ivory Coast, and Algeria. All the games will be broadcast live on NBS Sport.