Kenya’s Rising Lionesses Make History with First-Ever Team Sport Olympic Gold

Rising Lionesses Make History as Kenya Claim Historic Rugby Gold in Dakar

Kenya’s Rising Lionesses have achieved a major milestone in the country’s sporting history after defeating Australia 17–12 to win the women’s rugby sevens gold medal at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games on November 3.

The final at Stade Iba Mar Diop in Senegal delivered a dramatic finish, with Kenya overcoming a five-point deficit before securing victory in sudden-death extra time. The result marked Kenya’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in a team sport and made the Rising Lionesses the first African women’s team to win an Olympic rugby sevens gold medal.

Australia started strongly, with Darci Mackay scoring an early try. Kenya responded through Zain Hido, bringing the score level at 5–5 before half-time. The Australians regained their advantage in the second half when Grace Buchanan scored, taking the score to 12–5.

However, the Kenyan players refused to accept defeat. Josephine Kerubo scored a crucial late try, while Diana Wanjiku successfully converted it to bring the score to 12–12. With neither side able to secure the winning points during regular time, the match moved into sudden-death extra time.

The decisive moment came when Mitchelle Chemtai crossed the try line to score the winning points, completing Kenya’s remarkable 17–12 victory. Her effort triggered celebrations among the players, coaches and supporters, who witnessed one of the most memorable moments in the team's history.

Kenya's journey to the final was not without challenges. The team defeated China 12–5 and hosts Senegal 19–0 during the group stage before suffering a 17–5 defeat against Australia. They recovered from that setback by beating Madagascar 15–5 in the semi-finals, earning another opportunity to face the Australians.

The achievement carries significance beyond the gold medal itself. Kenya has traditionally been internationally recognised for its success in athletics, particularly long-distance running. This victory demonstrates the growing potential of the country in other sporting disciplines and highlights the progress of women's rugby.

Following the final, captain Zain Mohamed highlighted the team's determination to keep fighting despite falling behind. Head coach Knight Otuoma also credited the players' preparation, describing the result as evidence of a promising future for Kenyan rugby.

The victory is also an encouraging moment for young female athletes across Africa. It shows that with proper preparation, opportunities and support, African teams can compete successfully against established international opponents.

For the Rising Lionesses, the gold medal represents more than a tournament victory. It is a historic achievement that could inspire a new generation of Kenyan rugby players and help strengthen women's rugby throughout the continent.