Senegal Stuns Morocco in Epic Rugby Africa Cup Showdown with Sudden Death Heroics
In a dramatic, heart-stopping clash at the ongoing Rugby Africa Cup, Senegal pulled off a historic victory over Morocco, edging them 33–28 in sudden death after an intense 100 minutes of play at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala.
The quarterfinal match, packed with raw emotion, physicality, and unrelenting determination, was tied 28–28 at the end of regular time, forcing extra time in what will be remembered as one of the most gripping fixtures in Rugby Africa Cup.
🔥 First Half: Morocco’s Early Edge
Morocco entered the halftime break with a narrow 10–8 lead after a fiercely contested opening 40 minutes. Their tactical kicking and defensive organization kept Senegal at bay, but the West Africans remained within striking distance, driven by powerful forward carries and strong support from their vocal fans in the stands.
The second half was an all-out war of attrition. Both teams exchanged tries and penalties, trading blows like heavyweights in a championship bout. At the 57th-minute mark, Senegal had edged ahead 15–13, with the momentum seemingly shifting. However, Morocco clawed their way back, and as the final whistle of regulation time blew, the scoreboard read 28–28, forcing extra time.
⚡ Sudden Death: Mamadou Ndiaye the Hero
With nothing separating the two nations after 20 additional minutes, the match entered sudden death, where the first score would decide the outcome. In a stunning climax, Senegal’s Mamadou Ndiaye delivered a moment of pure brilliance, slicing through Morocco’s defense to ground the match-winning try and send the Senegalese bench into wild celebration.
The final score: Senegal 🇸🇳 33 – 28 🇲🇦 Morocco.
A battle of will, endurance, and national pride — and Senegal stood tall.
Rugby fans and pundits across the continent took to social media to hail the match:
“Senegal Triumphs in a Thriller! 🇸🇳🔥 After a grueling 20 minutes of extra time, Senegal edges Morocco 33–28 in a game for the ages. Pure heart, grit, and African rugby at its finest! ”
The result sends Senegal to 5th as Morocco end the tournament sixth place rankings.
🏆 Up Next: Zimbabwe vs Namibia for African Glory
Attention now turns to the final showdown later today as Zimbabwe takes on Namibia at Mandela National Stadium. The winner not only claims the Rugby Africa Cup 2025 title but also secures Africa’s direct ticket to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Who will rise and claim the continent’s rugby crown? Africa waits in anticipation.
Follow @Sports256 and join the conversation with #RACUG25 as the continent’s best battle for pride, passion, and a place on the world stage