In a historic triumph, Kenya’s Women’s Volleyball team, Malkia Strikers, clinched their 10th continental title at the 2023 CAVB Africa Women’s Nations Cup.
Their spectacular journey culminated in a dominant 3-0 victory over Egypt (25-22, 25-20, 25-14), marking the end of an 8-year-long wait and firmly reestablishing Kenya’s dominance in the sport.
This victory not only secured Kenya’s grip on their 10th title but also earned them an entry to the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
Their impressive ascent from 30th to 22nd in the latest FIVB World Rankings sealed their spot on the global stage, showcasing the team’s exceptional growth and performance.
“Congratulations to the remarkable Malkia Strikers, champions of the 2023 Africa Women’s Volleyball Championship. After an arduous eight-year journey, your unwavering determination, resilience, and indomitable spirit have rightfully reclaimed the title for Kenya. We celebrate this momentous achievement and take immense pride in your accomplishments,” President William Ruto congratulated the team on social media, echoing the nation’s elation and pride.
During the opening set, Kenya swiftly took charge of the match, propelled by early kills from Veronica Adhiambo and remarkable overpass strikes executed by Edith Wisah.
Despite Egypt’s efforts to stage a recovery, Kenya’s captain, Mercy Moim, unleashed a perfectly placed ace, further extending Kenya’s lead to 9-5.
A forceful kill by Sharon Chepchumba cemented Kenya’s advantage, prompting Egypt to call for a timeout.Kenya continued to maintain a comfortable lead at 17-11, even in the face of Egypt’s fleeting four-point surge.
Emad El-Din, Egypt’s coach, strategically introduced substitutions at 18-13 in an attempt to shift the game’s momentum, but Kenya exhibited unwavering resilience.
The set reached its conclusion with a score of 25-22 in favor of Kenya, thanks to another commanding kill delivered by Chepchumba.
In the subsequent set, Kenya displayed a remarkable comeback after an initial 0-2 setback, swiftly taking command and surging ahead to a 5-4 lead.
As the game progressed, Kenya’s dominance expanded, establishing a four-point advantage at 11-7, prompting Egypt to call a timeout to regroup.
Unfazed by the break, Kenya’s momentum remained relentless. They continued to press forward, stretching their lead to 17-13, a pivotal moment that saw the introduction of Jemimah Siang’u.
Her well-timed contributions bolstered Kenya’s efforts, ensuring a solid 20-16 lead.
As the set progressed, Rose Magoi and Loice Simiyu were brought into the game, their impact immediately apparent.
Magoi’s ace and Simiyu’s effective blocking contributed significantly to Kenya’s cause.
The set reached its conclusion with a score of 25-20, a testament to Kenya’s prowess, solidifying their 2-0 lead in sets.
The third and final set showcased Kenya’s unwavering determination as they launched into action with a commanding 9-0 lead, courtesy of Veronica Adhiambo’s exceptional service.
Egypt, determined to narrow the gap, managed to reduce the deficit to three points at 9-6 after a timeout called by Coach El Din.
However, Kenya quickly regained control, surging to a commanding nine-point advantage at 18-9.Kenya’s defensive prowess, led by the impeccable blocking orchestrated by Trizah Atuka and Edith Wisah, contributed to their dominant performance.
The set concluded with an emphatic score of 25-14, marking the crowning moment of Kenya’s 10th continental title.
