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Zimbabwe Ends 36-Year Wait with World Cup Rugby Return

Zimbabwe rugby team celebrating with trophy after winning Africa Cup.

Zimbabwe is heading to the Rugby World Cup for the first time since 1991 after it clinched a dramatic 30–28 victory over Namibia in the Rugby Africa Cup final in Kampala. The win secures Zimbabwe’s spot among the 24 teams competing in the 2027 tournament in Australia, marking Zimbabwe’s third overall appearance. After a tight first half that ended in a draw, Zimbabwe surged ahead in the second half with tries from Godfrey Muzanargwo and Brandon Mudzekenyedzi. While Namibia attempted to mount a comeback late in the second half, a missed long-range penalty in the final minute sealed their fate. The triumph ends Namibia’s long-standing streak of playing at the World Cup and reignites Zimbabwe’s rugby legacy. Despite the loss, Namibia still has a shot at qualification through a playoff path that begins next week.

BBC  

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