Malkia Strikers reclaim African t*tle to qualify for 2024 Olympics

Kenya Women's Volleyball team Malkia Strikers have emerged victorious at the 2023 CAVB Africa Women's Nations Cup, securing their 10th continental title.

They achieved this feat with a remarkable 3-0 (25-22, 25-20, 25-14) victory over Egypt. This historic win brings an 8-year-long wait to a glorious end, firmly placing the 10th title in Kenya's grasp.

Malkia Strikers set for Paris

Moreover, Kenya's ticket to the 2024 Paris Olympic Games is now secure, as they have jumped from 30th to 22nd in the latest FIVB World Rankings.

Right from the beginning of the match, Kenya's unwavering determination was evident as they took control, effectively neutralizing the formidable Egyptian side.

The dynamic duo of Sharon Chepchumba and Veronica Adhiambo delivered powerful attacks, while Trizah Atuka and Edith Mukuvilani showcased impeccable blocking skills.

Captain Mercy Moim's leadership and Agripina Kundu's precise reception further bolstered the team's dominance, complemented by the strategic plays of the young setter Immaculate Nekesa.

Malkia striker first set

In the first set, Kenya swiftly gained control of the game, thanks to early kills by Veronica Adhiambo and impressive overpass kills by Edith Wisah. Although Egypt attempted to mount a comeback, Kenya's captain, Mercy Moim, delivered an ace, extending Kenya's lead to 9-5. Sharon Chepchumba's powerful kill further solidified Kenya's advantage, prompting Egypt to call a timeout.

Kenya maintained a comfortable lead at 17-11, even after Egypt's brief four-point scoring streak. Egypt's coach, Emad El-Din, made tactical substitutions at 18-13, trying to shift momentum, but Kenya remained resilient. The set concluded with a score of 25-22 in Kenya's favor, courtesy of another decisive kill by Chumba.

In the second set, Kenya bounced back from an early 0-2 deficit to seize control, leading 5-4. Their advantage expanded to four points at 11-7, prompting Egypt to take a timeout.

Kenya continued to press on, reaching a 17-13 lead, which led to the introduction of Jemimah Siang'u. Her contributions aided Kenya in maintaining a 20-16 lead.

Later, Rose Magoi and Loice Simiyu were introduced, contributing significantly, with Magoi delivering an ace and Simiyu blocking effectively. The set ended 25-20, in Kenya's favor, securing a 2-0 lead in sets.

The third set witnessed a commanding performance by Kenya, jumping to a 9-0 lead from Veronica Adhiambo's services.

Egypt managed to narrow the gap to three points at 9-6 after a timeout called by El Din. However, Kenya regained control, establishing a nine-point advantage at 18-9. Kenya's solid blocking, orchestrated by Trizah Atuka and Edith Wisah, led to a dominant performance. The set concluded with a score of 25-14, securing Kenya's 10th continental title.