Zimbabwe have qualified for the Rugby World Cup for the first time since 1991 after edging Namibia 30–28 in a thrilling Rugby Africa Cup final held at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda.
The victory means the Sables will join 23 other nations at the 2027 World Cup in Australia. It will be their third appearance at the global tournament, having also represented Africa at the inaugural World Cup in 1987.
Zimbabwe entered Saturday’s final as defending Rugby Africa Cup champions, having defeated Namibia in the 2024 semi-finals. The first half ended 16–16, with both teams trading penalties and tries in a tense battle.
Early in the second half, Zimbabwe surged ahead with tries from Godfrey Muzanargwo and Brandon Mudzekenyedzi. Ian Prior converted both, giving the Sables a 30–16 lead.
Namibia, coached by former Saracens flanker Jacques Burger, responded with tries from Jay-Cee Nel and Adriaan Booysen, narrowing the gap to just two points with 10 minutes left.
In the 79th minute, substitute Tiaan Swanepoel attempted a long-range penalty from inside his own half—but missed, sealing Zimbabwe’s win.
“We are very happy that we remained focused and eventually qualified for the World Cup after last making it in 1991,” said Zimbabwe captain Hilton Mudariki. “I want to thank all the players and technical bench for a job well done.”
End of an Era for Namibia
The result ends Namibia’s streak of seven consecutive World Cup qualifications dating back to 1999. Zimbabwe’s win was only their fourth in 35 meetings with Namibia.
Ivory Coast remains the only other African nation besides South Africa and Zimbabwe to qualify through continental qualifiers, having done so in 1995.
Despite the loss, Namibia still have a chance to reach the World Cup. They will face the United Arab Emirates—runners-up at the Asia Rugby Men’s Championship—next Saturday in a play-off. The winner will advance to the Final Qualification Tournament in Dubai this November.
Zimbabwe’s qualification signals a resurgence in African rugby. The Sables have now gone undefeated in two consecutive Rugby Africa Cups and are gaining recognition for their disciplined play and tactical growth.
Rugby Africa President Herbert Mensah praised the tournament’s quality: “The level of competition was high. Congratulations to Zimbabwe, and Namibia—you still have a chance to qualify through the repechage.”
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