ZIMBABWE v TUNISIA: Africa Cup 1A

04.07.2015
Zimbabwe 19, Tunisia 8 in Harare (Africa Cup 1A)

Teams

Zimbabwe
1.D Mutamangira (Sharks) 2.R Mwale (College Rovers) 3.F Mudariki (Castres) 4.B Tshamala (Busters) 5.N Ndlovu (University of Johannesburg) 6.N Mukondiwa (Old Georgians) 7.J Leitao (Old Georgians) 8.A Rose (Boroughmuir) 9.C Jiji (Hartbury College) 10.T Makwanya (Old Hararians) 11.T Chitokwindo (Old Hararians) 12.C Makotose (Busters) 13.B Rouse (Old Georgians) 14.S Hunduza (Old Georgians) 15.T Nemadire (Old Hararians)
Replacements
16.N Nyemba (Harrogate RC) 17.K Nqindi (Belhar RC) 18.L Cleminson (Harare Sports Club) 19.F Chipendu (Old Georgians) 20.H Mudariki (University of Johannesburg) 21. L Tambwera (Valke) 23. G Nechironga (Old Hararians)

http://t2rugby.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=559

Two games remaining

08.08.2015: Kenya v Namibia in Windhoek
15.08.2015: Zimbabwe v Namibia in Windhoek

KENYA v TUNISIA: Africa Cup 1A

28.06.2015
Kenya 46, Tunisia 15 in Nairobi (Africa Cup 1A)

TEAMS

Kenya line-up from http://www.kenyacup.com
15.Samuel Oliech, 14. Darwin Mukidza, 13. Fabian Olando, 12. Kelvin Omiyo, 11. Jacob Ojee, 10. Isaac Adimo, 9. Lyle Asiligwa, 8. Joshua Chisanga, 7. Mike Okombe, 6. Brian Nyikuli (captain), 5. Ronnie Mwenesi, 4. Oliver Mang’eni, 3. Isaiah Nyariki, 2. Samuel Warui, 1. Moses Amusala
Replacements: 16.Peter Kaaria, 17. Curtis Lilako, 18. Davis Chenge, 19. Lawrence Buyachi, 20. Robert Aringo, 21. Dennis Muhanji, 22. Vincent Mose

Tunisia
15. Khlifa Chams Eddin, 14.Chedi Zabri, 13. Haythem Cheli,12. Ahmed Charrada, 11. Houssem Khalfi, 10. Eddin Khlifa Njem,9. Dhif Achref, 8. Majid Zemzem, 7. Said Mohsen,6. Khalid Zagden (captain),5. Guitari Mokhtar, 4. Achref Ben Hamouda, 3. Mohamed Mlise, 2. Salem Khanfouss,1. Mohammed Chargui
Replacements: 16. Mohamed Yassine, 17. Eddin Missaoui Nasser, 18. Bilel Labidi, 19. Werhani Issam, 20. Hamdi Dimassi, 21. Mansour Ali, 22. Salim Barhoumi

AFRICA CUP; 1A

06.06.2015
Namibia 22, Tunisia 14 in Tunis (Africa Cup 1A)

Briefly
Namibia were made to work hard for their win in Tunisia. In very hot conditions 20 minute water breaks were conducted. Namibia led 12-8 at halftime.


Namibian team v Tunisia
Image thanks to https://twitter.com/RugbyNamibia

Blow-by-blow accounts at https://twitter.com/RugbyNamibia

NAMIBIA v TUNISIA: Africa Cup, Division 1A

06.06.2015

Venue: Nabeul, Tunisia

Referee: C.Berdos (France)

Preview
Namibia has an advantage here in that they have a greater exposure to world rugby than does Tunisia. Tunisia is restricted to playing in Africa Cup competition which involved two perhaps three games annually plus the occasional test match friendly against a nations outside Africa.

Tunisia gained promotion to Africa Cup Division 1A after winning the 1B competition in 2014.

This is an important warm-up game for Namibia’s preparations for this year’s Rugby World Cup.

Last Five Encounters
16.06.2013 Namibia 45-13 in Dakar (WCQ Africa; CAR 1B, Final)
28.11.2009 Namibia 22-10 in Windhoek (WCQ Africa, Africa Cup Final, 2nd leg)
14.11.2009 Namibia 18-13 in Tunis (WCQ Africa, Africa Cup Final, 1st leg)
07.10.2006 Namibia 23-15 in Windhoek (WCQ Africa R2, Grp B; Africa Cup B)
01.07.2006 Tunisia 24-7 in Tunis (WCQ Africa R2, Grp B; Africa Cup B)

Encounters between these two nations go back to 1998 when Tunisia won 20-17 in Tunis in a World Cup qualifying game. These games were evenly contested until 2006 when Namibia began to dominate. Results have always been close, last year excepted.

Namibia Last Five P 5, W 3, L 2
22.11.2014 v Portugal L 20-29 in Lisbon
07.11.2014 v Canada L 13-17 in Colwyn Bay
29.10.2014 v Germany W 58-20 in Windhoek
06.07.2014 v Madagascar W 89-10 in Antananarivo (WCQ Africa; Africa Cup 1A)
02.07.2014 v Zimbabwe W 24-20 in Antananarivo (WCQ Africa; Africa Cup 1A)

Tunisia Last Five P 5, W3, L 2
14.06.2014 v Ivory Coast W 26-6 in Tunis (CAR Division 1B, Final)
10.06.2014 v Senegal W 22-14 in Tunis (CAR Division 1B, Semi-final)
02.11.2013 v Belgium L 10-26 in Tabiz
15.06.2013 v Namibia L 13-45 in Dakar (WCQ Africa; CAR 1B, Final)
11.06.2013 v Botswana W 43-12 in Dakar (WCQ Africa; CAR 1B, Semi-final)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Africa Table: Namibia 2nd, Tunisia 6th

World Rugby Ranking Points
Namibia 58.27, Tunisia 49.89

Prediction: Namibia by 26 points. Score 39-13

TEAMS

Namibia Squad

Rathony Becker (FNB Western Suburbs, 10 Tests)
Eneill Buitendag (FNB Wanderers, 10)
Johannes (Aranos) Coetzee (Brive, Frankryk, 0)
Leneve Damens (FNB Wanderers, 0)
Tinus du Plessis (FNB Wanderers, 39)
Jaco Engels (Trustco United, 8)
Nico Esterhuyse (FNB Wanderers, 31)
Thomasau Forbes (FNB Western Suburbs, 4)
JC Greyling (Trustco United, 2)
Eugene Jantjies (RCJ Farul, Roemenië, 38)
Shaun Kaizemi (FNB Western Suburbs, 3)
Theuns Kotzé (Bourge Bresse, Frank­ryk, 19)
Conrad Marais (Beziers, Frankryk, 4)
David Philander (Spotswood United, Nieu-Seeland, 18)
Heinrich Smit (Pukke, 6)
Johann Tromp (FNB Wanderers, 11)
Tjiuee Uanivi (Brive, Frankryk, 3)
PJ van Lill (Dax, Frankryk, 33)
Danie van Wyk (Trustco United, 9)
Casper Viviers (Trustco United, 7)
Roderique Victor (FNB Western Suburbs, 2)
DG Wiese (FNB Wanderers, 2)

http://t2rugby.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=515

Tunisia squad not available

AFRICA CUP 2015

CAR has rebranded itself as Rugby Africa.

AFRICA CUP 2015

Africa Cup 1A

13.06.2015: Namibia v Tunisia in Tunis
13.06.2015: Kenya v Zimbabwe in Harare
28.06.2015: Tunisia v Kenya in Nairobi
04.07.2015: Tunisia v Zimbabwe in Harare
11.07.2015: Kenya v Namibia in Windhoek
18.07.2015: Zimbabwe v Namibia in Windhoek (was 06.06)

Africa Cup 1B
July 3-11. Venue: Kampala, Uganda. Teams-Madagascar, Ivory Coast, Senegal, Uganda, Mauritius, Botswana

Africa Cup 1C
June 22-27. Venue: Lusaka, Zambia. Teams-Zambia, Nigeria, Cameroun, Morocco

Africa Cup 2 North
May 23-31. Venue: Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Teams-Togo, Benin, Ghana, Mali, Burkino Faso, Niger

Africa Cup 2 South
May 25-30. Venue: Kinshasa, RDC. Teams-Rwanda, Burundi, Congo Kinshasa, Congo Brazzaville

Adapted from http://www.rugbyafrique.com/calendrier-2/

www.rugbyinternational.net

CAR AFRICA CUP 1B Day 1

10.06.2014
Ivory Coast 22, Uganda 19 in Tunis (CAR Africa Cup 1B, Semi-final 1)
Tunisia 22, Senegal 14 in Tunis (CAR Africa Cup 1B, Semi-final 1)

Finals Day Saturday 14 June
Ivory Coast v Tunisia (Final)
Uganda v Senegal (Playoff 3rd-4th)

NAMIBIA V TUNISIA; World Cup Qualifier, Africa, Division 1B Final

15.06.2013

Venue: Stade Iba Mar Doip Dakar

Referee:

Preview
This is a crucial game this weekend. Namibia were relegated to Africa Division 1B last year after losing 54-57 to Madagascar in a dramatic game played out in extra time.

That result just made Namibia’s quest to reach the 2015 Rugby World Cup finals a whole lot more difficult.The Africa 2 spot goes to the winner of Africa Division 1A in 2014. So Namibia must win this game to progress to 1A for next year and aim for that top spot.

Tunisia will also be out to regain their place in Africa Division 1A and try and make the Rugby World Cup finals for the first time.

Those outcomes rest with this result in Dakar, Senegal, host to this years World Cup qualifiers.

Wednesday’s games saw Nambia defeat Senegal 35-12 and Tunisia defeating Botswana 43-12.

Review of Wednesday’s games at…
http://www.namibian.com.na/sport/local/full-story/archive/2013/june/article/namibia-on-track-in-senegal/

Prediction: Namibia by 10 points

TEAMS

Namibia

1. Jaco Engels
2. Carel Swanepoel
3. Andre Schlechter
4. Munee Tjiueza
5. Morne Blom
6. Rohan Kitshoff
7. Tinus du Plessis
8. Pieter-Jan van Lill (c)
...
9. Arthur Bouwer
10.Theuns Kotze
11. Heinrich Smit
12. Darryl de la Harpe
13. David Philander
14. Hendrik Dames
15. Chrysander Botha

16. Rathony Becker
17. Johannes Redelinghuys
18. Jaco Swanepoel
19. Awie Thompson
20. Stefan Neustadt
21. Eneill Buitendag
22. Justin Nel
23. Malcolm Moore

https://www.facebook.com/NamibiaRugbyUnion

Tunisia Squad not available

TEST RUGBY RESULTS 11-12 JUNE

11.06.2013
South Africa Pres. XV 19, Emerg. Ireland 8 in Tblisi (IRB Tblisi Cup) Non-test
Georgia 27, Uruguay 3 in Tblisi (IRB Tblisi Cup)
Namibia 35, Senegal 12 in Dakar (WCQ Africa; CAR Africa Cup, Div.1B)
Tunisia 43, Botswana 12 in Dakar (WCQ Africa; CAR Africa Cup, Div.1B)

Briefly
Namibia v Tunisia in 1B final on Saturday to decide who goes up to Division 1A in 2014. Senegal and Botswana scrap to decide who gets relegated to 1C in 2014.

CAR Africa Cup Division 1B Schedule

The Namibia-Senegal game is crucial for Namibia (and of course for Senegal). Namibia was relegated from Division 1A last year and must win this division to gain promotion to Division 1A for 2014. The Africa 1 position at the 2015 Rugby World Cup finals will come from Division 1A 2014.

RUGBY TEST MATCHES; World Cup Qualifying CAR Africa Cup Division 1A

All matches played in Jammal, Tunisia

14.07.2012
Zimbabwe v Uganda (Final)
Tunisia v Kenya (Relegation)

Briefly
I have other commitments this weekend so I cannot preview these games fully.

Zimbabwe v Uganda is for the Africa Cup. The winner is the African Champion (outside South Africa of course). Non of the teams will be relegated out of World Cup 2015 contentions. The loser of the Tunisia-Kenya game will be relegated to CAR Division 1B for 2013 (being replaced by Madagascar) but will have the opportunity to gain promotion to Division 1A for 2014.

Predictions:
Zimbabwe by 10 v Uganda
Tunisia by 5 v Kenya

TEST RUGBY IN AFRICA: World Cup Qualifying CAR Africa Cup Division 1A Semi-Finals

10.07.2012
Uganda 20, Kenya 19 in Jammal
Zimbabwe 30, Tunisia 14 in Jammal

Briefly
Uganda and Kenya upset the form books by winning their way to the Africa Cup final.

Zimbabwe upset the hosts Tunisia to win 30-14, setting up a Uganda-Zimbabwe final for the African Cup, to be played Saturday

Zimbabwe were too good for Tunisia and now play Uganda in the Cup Final.

Thanks to www.confederation-africaine-rugby.com

CAR Africa Cup and World Cup qualifying Saturdays Test Rugby

Uganda v Zimbabwe
Tunisia v Kenya

AFRICAN TEST RUGBY: World Cup Qualifying CAR Division 1A Semi-Finals in Tunisia

10.07.2011
Tunisia v Zimbabwe
Kenya v Uganda

Preview
The Africa Cup is up for grabs in this the top division of African rugby. This tournament has a big act to follow after the dramas in Division 1B in Madagascar.

There is really only a losing team in this tournament. It won’t be the end of the 2015 Rugby World Cup road for the losing team. They will have a chance to win Division B and gain promotion to this division for 2015. It will be in that year that the second automatic qualifier will be found. The second team will have a chance to get into the finals via a repechage challenge.

Tunisia v Zimbabwe
04.04.1998 Zimbabwe 43-9 in Bulawayo (WCQ Africa Rnd C)
12.05.1990 Zimbabwe 24-13 in Harare (WCQ Africa)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Africa Table-Tunisia 4th, Zimbabwe 5th

IRB Ranking Points
Zimbabwe 52.40, Tunisia 51.34

Prediction: Zimbabwe by 3 points

Teams

Zimbabwe Squad

Forwards
Denford Mutamangira, Pieter Joubert, Jakov Jakov, Kuda Kambasha, Tinashe Bopoto, Alfred Sarai, Costa Dinha, Jan Ferreira, Fortune Chipendu, Takunda Chifokoyo, Norman Mukondiwa, Shingi Mpofu, Jacques Leitao, Prayer Chitenderu, Tatenda Karuru, Brian Makamure

Backs
Charles Jiji, Scotty Jones, Tichafara Makwanya, Lenience Tambwera, Daniel Hondo, Cleopas Makotose, Tangai Nemadire, Danny Robertson, Kuda Chiwanza, Gavin Nyawata, Raymond de Jong, Josh Rowe, Samson Makuku, Wes Mbanje

http://www.newsday.co.zw/article/2012-0 ... les-squad/

Tunisia Squad not available

Kenya v Uganda
28.04.2012 Kenya 12-0 in Nairobi (Victoria Cup; Elgon Cup)
21.04.2012 Uganda 19-5 in Kampala (Victoria Cup; Elgon Cup)
16.07.2011 Uganda 32-18 in Kampala (Victoria Cup; Elgon Cup)
09.07.2011 Kenya 27-10 in Nairobi (Victoria Cup; Elgon Cup)
10.07.2010 Kenya 21-5 in Nairobi (Victoria Cup; Elgon Cup)

These two teams have met a number of times over the last two years. Uganda won the Elgon Cup this year on aggregate. These two teams win their games on home soil but lose away. How they will fare on a neutral venue will be interesting.

GWC Rugby Rankings
Africa Table-Kenya 2nd, Uganda 3rd

IRB Ranking Points
Kenya 50.13, Uganda 48.06

Prediction: Kenya by 5 points

Teams

Uganda Squad

Forwards
Ronald Adigasi (Entebbe Sadolin Mongers), Brian Odong (UTL Kobs), Oscar Echulu (UTL Kobs), *Asuman Mugerwa (MTN Heathens), Alex Mubiru (MTN Heathens - Assistant Captain), Solomon Mawanda (G4S Pirates), Romano Ogwal (MTN Heathens), Timothy Dumba (G4S Pirates), Scott Oluoch (MTN Heathens), Steven Ogwete (UTL Kobs), Mathias Ochwo (MTN Heathens - Captain), Joel Anguyo (G4S Pirates), Andrew Olweny (Entebbe Sadolin Mongers), Marvin Odong (G4S Pirates)

Backs
Anthony Kinene (G4S Pirates), Edmond Tumusiime (UTL Kobs), Ambrose Kamanyire (UTL Kobs), Oscar Kalyango (UTL Kobs), Paul Kabazzi (G4S Pirates), Michael Wokorach (MTN Heathens), Felix Lubega (G4S Pirates), Bishop Onen (MTN Heathens), Justin Kimono (UTL Kobs), Benon Kizza (MTN Heathens)

*uncapped

Team Management
Coaches: Yayiro Kasasa, Peter Magona, Fred Mudoola and Herbert Wafula.
Team Manager: Brian Tabaruka

Kenya Squad

Joel Nganga (Rhinos/Captain), Moses Amusala (Lions), Dennis Karani (Rhinos), Curtis Lilako (Lions), Sammy Warui , Duncan Mwangi, Wilson Kopondo(Rhinos), Ronnie Mwenesi (Cheetahs), Tony Mutai (Rhinos), Duncan Ekasi (Cheetahs), Oscar Ouma (Nakuru), Charles Omondi (Sharks), Lawi Buyachi (Cheetahs), Edwin Machanje (Lions), Moses Kola (Cheetahs), Edwin Achayo , Eden Agero (Rhinos), Isaac Adimo (Sharks), Nick Barasa(Rhinos), Patrice Agunda (Quins), David Ambunya (University of Cape Town), Vincent Mose (Cheetahs), Tony Onyango (Sharks), Dennis Muhanji (Rhinos)

Coach: Michael Otieno, Assistant Coach: Charles Ngovi, Team Manager: Wangila Simiyu, Physio: Chris Makachia

TEST RUGBY MATCH: Algeria v Tunisia 6 June 2012

 

Tunisia won this friendly test rugby match 27-13

For complete lists of all international test rugby matches played by Algeria and by Tunisia go to www.rugbyinternational.net

Point scorers
Tunisia : 3 Tries : Abdelmajid Zamzam, Sabri Gmir, Mohamed Ali Kochlef; 2 Pens, 3 Conv : Salim Barhoumi
Algeria : 1 Try : Ramzi Boubekeur ; 2 Pens, 1 Conv : Mickael Aît Issa
By courtesy of Alya Ourimi, FTR and thanks to ‘getienne’ at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3660&start=330

Pictures of the game below again By courtesy of Alya Ourimi, FTR and thanks to Gillies Etienne

Match officials Bahroun Haykel, Hassayoun Mehdi and Yakoubi Atef.

TEST RUGBY RESULT: Tunisia Edge Out UAE

06.04.2012
Tunisia 18, United Arab Emirates 7 in Tunis (Friendly)

Briefly
I have no other details at this stage. If Tunisia was at full strength (ie with all their France-based players) then this is an excellent result for UAE.

FRIENDLY RUGBY TEST MATCH

06.04.2012
United Arab Emirates v Tunisia in Tunis (Friendly)

Venue: National Rugby Stadium, Elmenzah

Referee:

Preview
The United Arab Emirates will play their first test of the season against Tunisia in Tunis. In addition the side will play the UAE Barbarians on Friday 13 April.

The UAE will participate in the Asia Five Nations tournament for 2012. This is the premier division of Asian rugby. Their fixtures in this tournament will be..
27 April v Hong Kong in Dubai
5 May v Japan in Japan
11 May v Kazakhstan in Dubai
26 May v Korea in Korea

This is the first time these two teams have met. Arabian Gulf, the former union of the area, played Tunisia in 2010 in Tunis, losing 22-25.

GWC Rugby Rankings
Tunisia does not rank on the world table whereas UAE does.

Tunisia appears on the IRB rankings but UAE does not due to the fact they have yet to play 10 test matches.

Prediction: Tunisia by 20 points

Teams

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

 

15		Joel Pikari	Abu Dhabi Harlequins
14		Sean Hurley	Dubai Dragons
13		Imad Reyal	Dubai Exiles
12		Andrew Russell	Dubai Dragons
11		Mohammed Alsulaiman	Dubai Wasps
10		Murray Strang	Abu Dhabi Harlequins
9		Patrick Hegarty	Abu Dhabi Harlequins
8		Brett Williams	Dubai Exiles
7		Samuel Cook	Abu Dhabi Harlequins
6		Alistair Thompson (Capt.)	Abu Dhabi Harlequins
5		Simon Osborne	Dubai Hurricanes
4		Gregory Thompson	Dubai Hurricanes
3		Daniel Boatwright	Dubai Hurricanes
2		Jonathan Greenwood	Sharjah Wanderers
1		Graham Murphy	Abu Dhabi Harlequins
16		Charles Lilley	Abu Dhabi Harlequins
17		Christopher Jones-Griffiths	Abu Dhabi Harlequins
18		Tristan Barnett	Dubai Hurricanes
19		Mohammad Hassan	Dubai Wasps
20		Abdulla Alnuaimi	Dubai Wasps
21		John Fawls	Dubai Exiles
22		Steve Smith	Dubai Hurricanes
		HEAD COACH: Duncan Hall

Ten new caps
Murray Strang, Patrick Hegarty, Joel Pakari, Charles Lilley, Jonathan Greenwood, Brett Williams, Mohammed Alsuaiman, Andrew Russell, and from the bench Tristan Barrett, Abdulla Alnuaimi.

http://www.uaera.ae/english/representative_teams.php?news_id=617

 

Tunisian squad not yet available.

AFRICA CUP TEST RUGBY: Final in Nairobi

12.11.2011
Tunisia v Kenya in Nairobi (Africa Cup 1A, Final)

Venue: EURFU Ground

Referee:

Preview
This was to be a four-team tournament. Unfortunately, firstly Namibia, and then, Morocco, withdrew for various reasons. In Namibia’s case it was both financial and the resignation of the RFU committee.

Although unannounced, the Tunisian squad is made up of amateurs, 11 from France and 11 local.

‘Head coach Michael “Tank” Otieno has handed KCB and Lions fullback Matthew Musita his first international capping after the 17-year-old was named in the final squad off 22 players to face Tunisia in the Africa Cup clash on Saturday at the RFUEA grounds.

The call-up was good news for the talented Form Three student at St. Paul’s Amukura High School in Teso County who abandoned basketball for rugby.

Otieno also recalled Cheetahs/Nondies’ scrum half Charles “Akaranga” Kanyi after a two-year absence and KCB/Lions loose lock Dennis Mwanja for the tie that doubles up for the Confederation of Africa Rugby (CAR) Cup. Rhinos/Quins winger Victor Sudi will captain the team.’

The Kenyan’s have the advantage of playing together in 2011 for the Victoria Cup. Tunisia has been based in France playing local teams for much of October.

Last Five Encounters
02.08.2008 Tunisia 44-15 in Tunis (WCQ Africa, R1, Pool C)
23.09.2006 Tunisia 31-12 in Tunis (WCQ Africa R2, Group B; Africa Cup Grp B)
10.06.2006 Kenya 25-21 in Nairobi (WCQ Africa R2, Group B; Africa Cup Grp B)
21.05.2005 Kenya 37-15 in Nairobi (CAR Div.1, Pool C)
20.09.1997 Tunisia 52-5 in Tunis (WCQ Africa Round B)

The 1997 match was the first between these two nations. Tunisia has never won in Nairobi.

GWC Rugby Rankings
Africa Table-Tunisia 4th, Kenya 6th

IRB Ranking Points
Tunisia 52.24, Kenya 49.18

Prediction: Tunisia by 5 points

Teams

Kenya Squad
Joel Nganga - UAP Rhinos
Vincent Ongera - UAP Rhinos
Dennis Karani - SDV Cheetahs
Anthony Mutai - UAP Rhinos
Ronnie Mwenesi – Lions
Duncan Ekasi - SDV Cheetahs
Andrew Amonde – Lions
Brian Okwomi - Nguvu Sharks
Charles Kanyi - SDV Cheetahs
Linus Simiyu - SDV Cheetahs
Victor Sudi - UAP Rhinos [Captain]
Patrice Agunda - UAP Rhinos
Anthony Nyandigisi - SDV Cheetahs
Vincent Mose - SDV Cheetahs
Mathew Musita – Lions
Curtis Lilako – Lions
Daniel Kiptoo - UAP Rhinos
Dennis Mwanja – Lions
Kevin Umbuge - SDV Cheetahs
Peter Mutai – Lions
Isaac Adimo - UAP Rhinos
Kelvin Omiyo - UAP Rhinos

Head Coach: Michael Otieno -

Adapted from http://www.kenyarfu.com

See also: http://www.nation.co.ke/sports/rugby/Ta ... index.html

And thanks to ‘Quentin’ at http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/forum2007/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3660&start=255

Tunisian Squad not available

AFRICA CUP RUGBY: Namibia and Morocco Pull Out

09.11.2011
Tunisia v Kenya in Nairobi (Africa Cup Division 1A)

Venue:

Referee

Preview
Sadly two of Africa’s top teams have pulled out of this tournament. No reasons given on CAR’s website http://www.confederation-africaine-rugby.com/index.php/fr/ apart from ‘forfait’(sic). An article here http://www.namibian.com.na/sport/local/full-story/archive/2011/november/article/nru-executive-resigns/ explains the reasons for Namibia’s withdrawl, namely financial and a mass resignation of the NRU excecutive. No word from Morocco.

So to this match which will now be the final of the Africa Cup 2011. No news coming out of both Kenya and Tunisia on the web. We are left guessing.

Tunisia should win by 5 points

WORLD CUP RUGBY: Repecharge Playoff No.1

17.07.2010
Tunisia v Romania in Buzau

Venue: Stadionul Gloria

Referee:

Preview
This is the first of two Rugby World Cup repecharge semi-finals to be played this weekend. The other is between Uruguay and Kazakhstan. The winner of each semi-final will meet in the Repecharge final, the venue to depend on who has the highest IRB Rankings place.

Tunisia has had a tough international time since qualifying for this playoff round in 2009. They lost to Namibia by aggregate points in November last year, the Namibians automatically qualifying for the 2011 Rugby World Cup Finals. Since then Tunisia squeezed a 25-22 win over Arabian Gulf at home. In the 2010 Africa Cup Pool play, held in Tunis, they narrowly defeated Senegal by 1 point and then lost 6-29 to the Moroccans in the final. Those results would most likely see Tunisia out of contention for the Africa Cup, and were certainly a worrying signal that Tunisia was already out of its depth as far as qualifying for the World Cup Finals. What is frustrating is the lack of media communication about this match from Tunisia. I have no idea of the composition of their squad. It looks as though as far as Tunisia is concerned this match doesn't exist!

Romania has had to battle harder for the place they hold in the qualifying rounds by comparison. Having finished third in the 2008-10 European Nations Cup and World Cup qualifying rounds (Georgia and Russia, 1st and 2nd, qualified automatically) they then faced Ukraine home-away. They successfully steered themselves past that hurdle which now brings them to a one off play off against Tunisia. Battle harder they may have but this has hardened the Romanians for this task.

Although missing a number of France-based players, Romania's traditional strength, there is still a look of certainty about the Romanians. Most are experienced campaigners and they have had a longer build up history compared to the underdone Tunisians. Playing on home turf, if a little removed from Bucharest, the Romanians should waltz in.

Previous Encounters
08.05.1993 Romania 51-0 in Bucharest (FIRA A2)
05.10.1986 Romania 37-9 in Constanta (FIRA A, Rnd 2)
03.05.1986 Tunisia 17-15 in Monastir (FIRA A, Rnd 1)
05.05.1985 Romania 30-3 in Constanta (FIRA A)

Romania Under 23 defeated Tunisia 15-7 in Tunis in May 2009.

GWC Rugby Rankings
World Table-Romania 19th, Tunisia 27th
IRB Rankings-Romania 19th (65.10), Tunisia 23rd (52.24)

Prediction: Romania by 47 points

Teams

Romania
15. Florin Vlaicu (CSA Steaua Bucuresti)
14. Catalin Fercu (CSU Arad)
13. Ionut Dimofte (CSM Baia Mare)
12. Csaba Gal (CSM Baia Mare)
11. Stefan Ciuntu (CSM Baia Mare)
10. Danut Dumbrava (CSA Steaua Bucuresti)
9. Valentin Ivan (CS Dinamo Bucuresti)
8. Alexandru Manta (Lyon, France)
7. Daniel Ianus (CSA Steaua Bucuresti)
6. Stelian Burcea, Capt. (CSU Arad)
5, Valentin Ursache (CSM Baia Mare)
4. Marius Sirbe (Tarbes, France)
3. Samuel Maris (CSA Steaua Bucuresti)
2. Cezar Popescu (Saint Medard en Jalles, France)
1. Mihai Lazar (Saint Etienne Caserugby, France)
Relacements
16. Andrei Radoi (CSM Baia Mare)
17. Radu Basalau (CSU Arad)
18. Cristian Petre (AS Beziers, France)
19. Daniel Carpo (RCJ Farul Constanta)
20. Valentin Calafeteanu (CSU Arad)
21. Ionel Cazan (CSA Steaua Bucuresti)
22. Catalin Nicolae (RCJ Farul Constanta)
Head Coach: Romeo Gontineac

Adapted from http://frr.ro/2010/07/16/stelian-burcea-capitan-cu-tunisia/

Tunisia
Not available

TEST RUGBY TOURNAMENT: Africa Cup

The Africa Cup is Africa's major tier 1 15's rugby tournament. 12 teams are involved at this level, divided into 3 pools

Pool A-Morocco, Tunisia, Ivory Coast and Senegal
Pool B-Namibia, Uganda, Cameroun and Zambia
Pool C-Kenya, Madagascar, Zimbabwe and Botswana

The winner of each pool plus the best second-placed team will compete in the finals to be held in November, venue to be determined.

Pool A Final
Morocco v Tunisia in Tunis

Preview
Morocco created a mild sensation with an emphatic 60-3 crushing of Ivory Coastmid week. The Ivory Coast team has gradually been building strength with a healthy smattering of France-based players but during the week Morocco systematically took the team apart. Morocco were bundled out of Rugby World Cup finals contention last year but appear to be bouncing back.

Morocco also has a healthy rugby player base in France. They will pose a serious threat to Tunisia.

The Tunisians will be warming up for their upcoming struggles with Romania in the World Cup Repechage playoffs. They were less than impressive with their 12-11 win over Senegal mid-week.

Last Five Encounters
23.04.2005 Morocco 10-3 in Tunis (CAR Div.1, Pool C)
24.04.2004 Morocco 17-7 in Casablanca (CAR Div.1, Pool A)
18.05.2002 Tunisia 27-26 in Tunis (WCQ Africa R3, North: CAR North 1)
19.05.2001 Morocco 30-3 in Casablanca (Africa Championship, North)
17.03.2001 Morocco 17-14 in Tunis (Africa Championship, North)

It has been a while since these two North African teams met. Morocco has an historical advantage.

GWC Rugby Rankings
Africa Table-Tunisia 3rd, Morocco 4th
IRB Ranking Points-Tunisia 54.20, Morocco 53.05

Prediction-Morocco looks to have the form. Morocco by 5 points

Teams are not available

Pool A Playoff
Ivory Coast v Senegal

Preview
Senegal gave the Tunisians a mother of a fright mid week whilst Ivory Coast fell apart against Morocco. On form Senegal would be favourites to win this playoff.

Previous Encounters
26.05.2007 Ivory Coast 12-10 in Dakar (Africa Cup, Div.1, North B)
09.07.2005 Ivory Coast 20-6 in Dakar (WCQ Africa Rnd 1B, Pool A)
1983 Ivory Coast 25-0 in Abidijan
1977 Ivory Coast 15-9 in Dakar

GWC Rugby Rankings
Africa Table- Ivory Coast 7th, Senegal 8th
IRB Ranking Points-Ivory Coast 50.31, Senegal 42.12

Prediction: The rankings would give it to Ivory Coast, but on form I have to go with Senegal to cause a bit of an upset, and win this by 5 points.

Teams

Ivory Coast squad
Edgar Babaou, Capt. (Gennevilliers, France) Prop
Arouna Cisse (ASPA) prop
? Stanislaus (p L'Abidjan Université Club) prop
Ahmed Hodroj (Begles-Bordeaux, France) Prop
Brahima Konate (Trechville Biafra Olympique) hooker
Charles Zambia (L'Abidjan Université Club) hooker
Frank Acho (Poitiers, France) lock
Issa Meit (Auc L'Abidjan Université Club) lock
Claude Kouakou (Trechville Biafra Olympique) lock
Kinafo Diabate ((Trechville Biafra Olympique) lock or flanker
Gaoussou Dao (Drancy, France) flanker
Bemba Camara (Lunel, France) Flanker
Sydney Edward (Graulhet, France) lock or flanker
Hyacinthe Mouguy (Massy, France) Scrum half
Mohamed Dembele (Trechville Biafra Olympique) scrum half
Tidiane Kamara (Trechville Biafra Olympique) fly half
Jean Maurice Ulum (Oyonnax, France) fly half or centre
Djakaridja Sombes (Trechville Biafra Olympique) centre
Toure Salif (Epernay, France) center or winger
Tediaga Coulibaly (Gennevilliers, France) winger
James Zie winger or rear, Metro Racing)
Yann Lohore (Montauban, France) winger
Louis Konan Kouadio (Trechville Biafra Olympique) fullback
Coaches: Abou Camara and Ludovic Chaix

Adapted from http://rugbivoire.midiblogs.com/
Senegal
Squad list not available

Senegal Squad photo for 2010 African Cup. Thanks to http://www.senegal-rugby.com/

TEST RUGBY: Africa Cup Pool A

Semi-finals in Tunis

15.06.2010
Morocco 60, Ivory Coast 3
Tunisia 12, Senegal 11

Briefly
The huge win to Morocco was a surprise as Ivory Coast has been tough competition in the past (and made the 1995 Rugby World Cup). Even more alarming was Tunisia's close call with Senegal. Senegal has made grant strides in their rugby development.

Finals Saturday
Morocco v Tunisia

Playoff
Ivory Coast v Senegal

Winner of each pool plus best second place getter meet in November.