Kenya’s national netball team, The Divas, delivered a stunning performance in Dubai on Tuesday, routing the United States 66–25 to reignite their campaign at the UAE Netball Tournament.
Coming off two narrow defeats—41–33 to Namibia and 42–40 to Singapore—Kenya approached the game with urgency and purpose. From the opening whistle, The Divas dominated, racing to a 17–3 lead in the first quarter, powered by the attacking duo of Delilah Akinyi and Hellen Sinoya.
Early in the second quarter, Akinyi exited with an injury, but her replacement, Lucy Akumu, slotted in confidently and kept the momentum going. By halftime, Kenya had stretched their lead to 34–9, showing superior pace and precision.
Coach Mugisha Ali was forced into further changes after Elsa Ndong, playing Wing Attack, picked up a knock. Vida Adhiambo replaced her, while Mary Onyango came on at Centre for Irine Atieno. Despite the injuries, Kenya remained in full control, finishing the third quarter ahead 54–17.
The final quarter was no different, with Kenya sealing the game 66–25 in one of their most convincing displays yet.
Speaking after the win, Coach Ali praised the team’s depth and discipline:
“It was a tough, physical match. We lost two players to injury, but our bench stepped up brilliantly. Our defensive line held strong, and our attack was clinical. We’re still in the hunt for the finals.”
Kenya’s path to the finals remains open but depends on results in other matches. They face hosts UAE next, followed by a match against Ireland. A win in both could secure a spot in the final, provided UAE also beats Singapore. If not, The Divas will contend for third place.
Goal attacker Hellen Sinoya credited the team’s focus:
“We made fewer mistakes today, and that made all the difference. We’ve been learning from every match. This result shows what we’re capable of.”
With renewed confidence and momentum, Kenya now looks ahead to the decisive clashes that could shape their tournament journey.
By Samson Jura
