Hong Kong 7s: Shujaa's quarterfinal hopes thrashed after loss to France
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Reading Time: 2min | Sat. 29.03.25. | 07:35
Heading into the decisive clash against France, Kenya had picked up four points on the opening day, keeping their quarterfinal aspirations alive
Kenya Sevens' hopes of reaching the quarterfinals at the Hong Kong 7s were dashed after a narrow 14-7 defeat to France in their final group-stage match at Kai Tak Stadium on Saturday 29 March.
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Despite putting up an improved performance and securing two losing bonus points, Shujaa fell short of the knockout rounds after Spain's victory over Great Britain confirmed their elimination.
Heading into the decisive clash against France, Kenya had picked up four points on the opening day, keeping their quarterfinal aspirations alive.
However, they needed a favorable result in their final match to progress to the Cup quarters for the first time this season.
France, despite being temporarily reduced to six men after receiving a yellow card, held firm under pressure.
Once back to full strength, Simon Désert exploited a gap on the left flank, sprinting to score a converted try that gave France a 7-0 lead at halftime.
Kenya responded early in the second half through Patrick Odongo, who spotted a defensive lapse and raced through for a try under the posts.
The successful conversion leveled the scores at 7-7, sparking hope among the Kenyan faithful.
Shujaa pressed forward in search of a match-winning score but met a resolute French defense.
A critical knock-on gifted possession back to France, who capitalized through a well-executed kick-and-chase move.
Despite Odongo’s desperate attempt to recover the ball, it spilled loose, allowing Mateo Garcia to pounce for the decisive try at the stroke of full-time.
The conversion sealed France’s 14-7 victory, officially ending Kenya's Cup quarterfinal ambitions.
Shujaa will return to action at 11:15 AM as they shift focus to their next challenge.
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