Grace Okulu’s hat-trick led Kenya Lionesses to a dominant 17-5 victory over Belgium, securing a strong start in Cape Town.
Kenya Lionesses kicked off their second leg campaign of the 2025 HSBC Women’s Challenger Series with a commanding 17-5 victory over Belgium in their opening Pool A match at Cape Town, South Africa, on Friday.
Fresh from their triumph in the first leg of the series last weekend, where they defeated Argentina 17-12 in the final, the Lionesses carried their winning momentum into the encounter against Belgium.
Kenya’s starting lineup featured Naomi Amuguni, Christabel Lindo, Sheila Chajira, Sinaida Nyachio, Judith Okumu, Grace Okulu and Sharon Auma.
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From the onset, Kenya imposed themselves on the game, winning possession almost immediately after Belgium’s kickoff.
Their aggressive start paid off within the opening minute when captain Grace Okulu exploited an overload on the right flank, sprinting to the try line after a swift switch of play to the left.
Though Okulu’s conversion attempt hit the post, the Lionesses had drawn first blood with a 5-0 lead.
Kenya’s attacking intent remained relentless, and Okulu soon doubled her tally in the third minute, breaking through Belgium’s defensive line to extend the lead to 10-0.
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The Lionesses’ dominance continued throughout the first half as Okulu completed her hat-trick in the seventh minute. Sinaida Nyachio successfully converted, giving Kenya a comfortable 17-0 lead heading into halftime.
The second half, however, was a stark contrast to the first as Belgium emerged with a renewed sense of purpose. Determined to overturn their deficit, the Europeans put pressure on Kenya’s defense, and their efforts bore fruit when Femke Soens powered through to score a try, reducing the margin to 17-5.
Despite the setback, Kenya’s defense held firm, repelling Belgium’s attacking advances. However, their offensive rhythm faltered, with scrappy play and unforced errors hampering their ability to add more points.
The Lionesses struggled to find cohesion and their usually fluid passing game became disrupted, allowing Belgium opportunities to regain possession.
Nevertheless, Kenya’s early dominance proved enough to secure the win as they held on to their lead for a well-earned victory.
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The result places them in a strong position ahead of their final Pool A fixture against regional rivals Uganda at 8:36 pm.