BY SULAIMON OLABISI MUYINAT
Against all odds and after a rollercoaster group stage, Nigeria’s senior men’s rugby team has galloped into the quarter-finals of the Africa Men’s Sevens Rugby Nations Cup, currently lighting up the island of Mauritius.
It was a baptism of fire for the Stallions, who opened their campaign against the mighty Blitzboks of South Africa—Africa’s rugby royalty. Though they fell 17–5, the Nigerians showed grit, heart, and flashes of brilliance that set the tone for what was to come.
Stung but not broken, the Stallions came charging back in their second match with a fierce momentum that swept away Burkina Faso in a commanding 29–12 victory. It was rugby poetry in motion—precision, pace, and power rolled into one unforgettable performance.
Their final group match, however, saw the Stallions stumble in a tightly contested battle against Zambia. Despite fighting to the final whistle, they bowed out 14–7 in a match that could have gone either way.
But the story isn’t over.
With a mix of flair, fire, and fearless tackles, Nigeria has earned a spot in the quarter-finals—where a titanic clash awaits against the Shujaa of Kenya. Expect fireworks, flying tackles, and fierce competition as two proud rugby nations lock horns in a match that promises to be nothing short of electric.
Elsewhere in the quarter-finals, South Africa will square off with Uganda, Zambia takes on Madagascar, Zimbabwe clashes with Ghana, while Burkina Faso seeks redemption against tournament hosts Mauritius.
For the Stallions, the mission is clear: run hard, tackle harder, and gallop into the semi-finals with heads held high and hearts set on glory.
