Baby Shark, Big Upsets, and a Three-Way Tie Shake Up the FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship 2026
The African Continental Stage of the FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship 2026 became even more exciting on Day 2. Rounds 3 and 4 were played at the Coetzenburg Center in Stellenbosch, South Africa.
The event is supported by Freedom Holding Corp., the main sponsor of the African Continental Stage and the General Partner of the International School Chess Federation (ISCF). Their support helps make both the tournament and its educational activities possible.
Three Teams Share the Lead
The day started with only Uganda and Kenya holding perfect scores. Both teams faced each other in Round 4. After four exciting games, the match ended in a 2-2 draw.
This result allowed Madagascar to catch up after defeating Angola 3-1. At the end of Round 4, Uganda, Kenya, and Madagascar were all tied for first place with seven match points each.
Baby Shark Brings Smiles Before the Games
The playing hall had a fun and cheerful atmosphere before Round 3. As the players entered the venue, energetic music welcomed them. Then Chief Arbiter Gunther van den Bergh surprised everyone. He asked all players to stand for an anthem. The students looked confused at first.
Suddenly, the famous Baby Shark song started playing. The entire hall burst into laughter. Even the arbiters joined the children in performing the popular dance moves.
Van den Bergh later explained that young players often feel nervous before their games. He wanted them to relax and enjoy the moment before the competition began.
The idea worked perfectly. Many players who had earlier admitted they were nervous were smiling and laughing just minutes before the clocks started.
Uganda and Kenya Continue Their Strong Run
Round 3 featured the first meeting between unbeaten teams. Top seed Sr. Miriam Duggan Primary School from Uganda dominated Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool of Namibia with a perfect 4-0 victory.
Meanwhile, Kenya’s Moi Nyeri Complex Primary School defeated Delhi Public School from Ghana by 3½-½. These wins left Uganda and Kenya as the only teams with perfect match scores heading into Round 4.
Round 4 Produces Major Upsets
The clash between Uganda and Kenya lived up to expectations. Uganda won on Boards 1 and 4.
- Ronald Wabwire (2174) defeated his opponent on Board 1.
- WCM Juliet Asaba (1985) secured another win on Board 4.
However, Kenya fought back strongly in the middle boards. Trevor Waweru (1478) shocked the higher-rated Trevor Tumukunde (1727) in the battle of the two Trevors. Another surprise followed when Irwin Ndegwa (1474) defeated Daniel Odokonyero (1944).
The impressive comeback earned Kenya a valuable 2-2 draw.
Madagascar Joins the Leaders
Madagascar took full advantage of the draw between Uganda and Kenya. Lycée Privé Hibiscus defeated Angola’s Instituto Industrial by 3-1. The victory moved Madagascar into a share of first place alongside Uganda and Kenya.
A Simultaneous Exhibition With a Unique Twist
The evening featured one of the tournament’s most exciting side events. International Master Henry Robert Steel gave a simultaneous chess exhibition at the Lectorium of Stellenbosch University. There was one special twist.
Instead of one player controlling a board, the audience played together. Spectators voted for every move, and the most popular choice was played against the IM. This made the exhibition both educational and entertaining.
Inspiring Talk by the Coach Behind Queen of Katwe
Before the simul, Robert Katende delivered a special masterclass. Katende is the founder of the SOM Chess Academy in Katwe, Uganda. He is also the coach whose work inspired the famous movie Queen of Katwe.
His session, titled “Chess as a Tool for Life Development,” focused on how chess teaches planning, resilience, confidence, and smart decision-making. His inspiring message connected strongly with the young players, many of whom come from programs influenced by his work.
Fun Continues Beyond the Chess Boards
The entertainment zone remained busy throughout the evening. Players enjoyed a variety of activities, including:
- PS5 gaming
- Air hockey
- Foosball
- Table tennis
- Cornhole
- Giant chess
- Giant Jenga
- Badge-making activities
- National and team games
These activities gave players a chance to relax and make new friends after their matches.
Looking Ahead
Rounds 5 and 6 will be played on July 9. With the tournament entering its crucial stage, every match will become even more important as teams battle for the top spots.
The race for the African Continental title promises plenty more exciting chess in Stellenbosch.
Photos: ISCF
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
