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Malkia Strikers whip Uganda to make it 3/3 in Africa Cup of Nations

Friday, August 18th, 2023 18:40 | By
Malkia Strikers in action against Rwanda in Cameroon. PHOTO/(@CAVBPress)/CAVB/Twitter
Malkia Strikers in action against Rwanda in Cameroon. PHOTO/(@CAVBPress)/CAVB/Twitter

Kenyan Women's Volleyball team, known as Malkia Strikers, secured a resounding 3-0 victory over Uganda in the third match of the Africa Cup of Nations on Friday in Cameroon.

The match played at Mfandena Indoor gymnasium, saw Malkia Strikers dominate the court with set scores of 25-14, 25-16, and 25-14.

Malkia Strikers fine run

Buoyed by their earlier successes against Rwanda and Burkina Faso in the tournament's openers, Malkia Strikers entered the clash against Uganda with confidence.

Uganda, too, had a commendable track record, having triumphed over Morocco with a close-fought 3-2 victory.

Malkia Strikers will play three more friendly matches this week against Sesi Sorocaba of the Brazilian Serie B and the Brazilian U21 side as they intensify their World Championships preparations. PHOTO/ Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF)
Malkia Strikers celebrate a point earned in a set during their friendly match against Osasco Volleyball Club on Friday 15 July in Sao Paulo, Brazil. PHOTO/ Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF)

The match unfolded with both sides unleashing a series of powerful plays and tactical manoeuvres. Veronica Adhiambo, a standout player for Malkia Strikers, showcased her prowess by landing three consecutive aces, giving Kenya an early lead of 6-3.

Uganda's coach, Peter Lakony, called for a time-out in an attempt to shift the momentum, but Malkia Strikers only gained momentum as the match progressed.

The first set was decisively claimed by Malkia Strikers with a score of 25-15, setting the tone for the match.

Malkia Strikers win second set

Uganda mounted a spirited response in the second set, surging ahead with a 6-2 lead. However, Adhiambo's ace and well-coordinated plays allowed Malkia Strikers to level the score at 14-14. From that point on, Kenya's dominance was evident as they clinched the set with a commanding 25-16 lead.

The third set saw Uganda continue to challenge their opponents, but the Kenyan team's resolve remained unshaken.

Adhiambo's ace and the impressive performance of Loice Simiyu and Rose Magoi propelled Malkia Strikers to a resounding victory.

A group huddle for Malkia Strikers after their match against Belgium in Arnhem the Netherlands. PHOTO/ Malkia Strikers/ Facebook
Sharon Chepchumba goes in for a group huddle in Kenya's match with Belgium at the FIVB 2022 World Women's Championships in Poland and the Netherlands. PHOTO/ Malkia Strikers/ Facebook

The match concluded with a score of 25-14 in favor of Kenya, solidifying their position as a powerhouse in the tournament.

With this triumph, Malkia Strikers are now set to face Morocco in their next encounter. The team's mission to secure the Africa Cup of Nations title and earn qualification for the prestigious 2024 Paris Olympic Games remains unwavering.

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