Staff Reporter
DEFENDING champions Namibia launched their 2026 Rugby Africa U20 Barthés Trophy campaign with a hard-fought 11-6 victory over Tunisia in Kampala, Uganda, after overcoming a first-half deficit to secure a winning start to the tournament.
Tunisia went into the half-time break leading 6-0 after a strong opening period, but the Junior Welwitschias produced a determined second-half performance to overturn the deficit and claim the narrow victory.
Namibia’s defence was tested early as Tunisia threatened with attacking opportunities, but the defending champions held firm to keep themselves within striking distance before turning the momentum around after the break.
Photos: Rugby Afrique
The result gives Namibia an important opening win as they begin their pursuit of a record fourth Barthés Trophy title in the competition’s modern era.
The 2026 Rugby Africa U20 Barthés Trophy is being held from 7 to 11 August at the Mutesa II Stadium in Kampala, Uganda. The tournament features Africa’s leading Under-20 rugby nations competing for continental honours.
Unlike previous editions, the Performance Division begins at the semi-final stage, with Namibia, Kenya, Zimbabwe and Tunisia competing for a place in the final. The winners of the semi-finals will advance to the title decider, while the losing teams will contest the third-place playoff.
Namibia entered the tournament with confidence after being officially flagged off in Windhoek earlier this week, where Namibia Rugby Union CEO John Haynes challenged the team to defend their crown.
The Junior Welwitschias secured the 2025 title after defeating Kenya 32-22 in Harare, denying Chipu the opportunity to retain the championship. Kenya had previously defeated Namibia 34-28 in a dramatic 2024 final to claim their third Barthés Trophy title.
Namibia’s next match will be played on 11 August against the winner of the Kenya versus Zimbabwe encounter.
