The Malkia Strikers, Kenya’s esteemed women’s volleyball team, have secured a spot in the African Games semifinals with a decisive 3-0 victory over Gambia.
The team, led by coach Japheth Munala, showcased their dominance right from the first set with a convincing 25-12 win, setting the tone for the rest of the match.
Continuing their relentless form, the Malkia Strikers overpowered Gambia in the following sets, sealing the match with 25-8 and 25-10 victories. Their eyes are now set on Egypt, a formidable opponent who also secured a 3-0 win against Nigeria, setting the stage for a high-stakes semifinal showdown.
The Strikers, who are 10-time African Champions, are on a quest for their sixth African Games title, a journey they dedicate to their teammate Mercy Moim, who is mourning the loss of her husband.
Coach Munala expressed his commitment to guiding the team to victory in honor of their captain, emphasizing a focused, one-match-at-a-time approach during this challenging time.
Last year, the Strikers emerged victorious against Egypt in the African Cup of Nations final, claiming their tenth title with a 3-0 win. However, after a recent 3-1 defeat to Egypt in the CAVB Zone V Qualifiers, the Kenyan team is determined to avenge their loss and reclaim their standing as the continent’s top volleyball team.
The upcoming semifinal promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to prove their mettle and advance to the final stage of the African Games.