Barthes Cup 2025: Chipu edge Zimbabwe to seal second place

Chipu ended their 2025 Barthes Cup campaign on a high, edging hosts Zimbabwe U20 21-20 on Saturday at Old Hararians Sports Club in Harare.

The result saw Kenya U20 bounce back from their 32-22 defeat to Namibia U20 on Wednesday to finish second in the four-team tournament.

The defending champions had opened their campaign with a 29-21 win over Tunisia U20, but it was Namibia U20 who were crowned champions after winning all three of their matches, claiming their first title since 2018.

Chipu made a strong start against Zimbabwe U20, with Javan Odhiambo crossing the line in the second minute for a 5-0 lead. Although the conversion was missed, Odhiambo extended the lead to 8-0 with a penalty soon after.

Zimbabwe U20 clawed their way back when Chipu were reduced to 14 men, scoring a converted try to cut the deficit to 8-7. Another yellow card left Kenya down to 13, but Odhiambo kept Chipu ahead 11-7 at half-time with a second penalty.

The second half saw Zimbabwe U20 finally take advantage of their numerical superiority, scoring two tries to lead 17-11 and later stretching it to 20-11.

However, Chipu mounted a late comeback. Daniel Kipchirchir went over for a try, which was converted to make it 20-18. Then, with three minutes left, a penalty gifted Kenya the chance to edge ahead 21-20.

Despite intense pressure from the hosts, Chipu’s defence held firm to seal back-to-back Barthes Cup wins over Zimbabwe U20.

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