Namibia surged back into World Cup contention in spectacular style, thrashing the United Arab Emirates 86-29 in a high-stakes Asia/Africa play-off clash at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala. The emphatic victory sends the African side into the final repechage qualifier for Rugby World Cup 2027.
It was the UAE who struck first, with Emosi Vecanaua crossing the line in just three minutes. Max Johnson’s conversion and early penalty gave the Asian side a 10-5 lead after ten minutes. But from there, Namibia took control and the floodgates opened.
Jurgen Meyer and Richard Hardwick ignited the comeback. Then, Torsten van Jaarsveld crossed the try line three times in a relentless first-half onslaught. With UAE’s Matthew Mills in the sin bin just before halftime, Namibia charged into the break leading 39-22.
The second half was complete domination. Namibia ran riot with tries from Aston Mukwilongo, Danie van der Merwe (twice), Armand Combrinck, and Max Katjijeko. Even a yellow card couldn’t break their rhythm.
Namibia now heads to the final qualification round in Dubai this November, aiming to extend their World Cup streak since 1999. One more hurdle. One last chance. The dream burns brighter than ever.
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| THE MATCH |
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