Tough test for Chipu as they must fend off Spain to avoid early exit

Kenya U20’s Felix Chacha is tackled by Christopher Afamasaga (left) of Junior Manu Samoa during World Rugby U20 Trophy 2023. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Kenya will be playing for survival in the ongoing World Rugby U20 Trophy in Nairobi when they face off against Spain today at Nyayo Stadium from 4pm.

Chipu who are third in Group B with one point collected from the 34-25 defeat to Samoa last weekend must collect maximum points to stand a chance of qualifying for the knock out stages of the World Cup tournament.

While the Spanish nation enjoyed a 53-0 convincing win over Hong Kong China, Chipu have been left with a huge task of responding positively, a response coach Curtis Olago is keen to achieve after ringing changes to his starting lineup.

The multiple time Kenya Cup winning tactician made six changes to the side that started the defeat to Samoa on Saturday, handing a first tournament appearance to James Olela who slots in at fullback as George Otieno and Mike Oduor man the front row.

Stanslaus Shikoli, who bagged the team's opening try in the tournament has been relegated to the bench and is replaced by Edmund Omondi.

Vincent Omondi starts ahead of Iddo Kuta at openside while Victor Odhiambo is given the nod on the right wing in place of Alvin Mwamburi.

Faran Juma, who started last weekend’s match at fullback is moved to flyhalf in place of Eddy Wambugu.

Samoa and Hong Kong China will open proceedings at 10am before Uruguay take on Zimbabwe from 12pm.

Scotland will entertain USA at 2pm before the hosts Kenya play in the final match against Spain from 4pm.

Speaking ahead of the match, Olago said they have to play better than they did last week, with focus on set pieces, ball handling and decision-making.

“It was a lesson for us against Samoa. We allowed them the freedom to play and responded very late in the game when the game was out of reach. For us, that first game was our preseason and now we have to respond today.

“Spain are a tough side playing with speed and strength and we have to be ready. We have to counter them and play better by moving the ball quickly, making the right calls and avoiding ball handling mistakes.

“If we make mistakes, we will give them space to hurt us. We have rested well and now we need maximum points to stay alive,” said Olago.