This archive report was first published on 9 July 2019.
On Tuesday, July 9, 2019, Kenya's national women's volleyball team, Malkia Strikers, kicked off their Africa Nations Cup campaign with a convincing 3-0 win over Algeria at the October 6 Hall in Giza, Egypt.
The match saw Kenya's Malkia Strikers dominate from the onset, leading 8-7 at the first technical timeout before pulling away to a 25-19 win in the first set.
Defending champions Cameroon also got off to a strong start, thumping Botswana 3-0 (25-12, 25-17, 25-10) in the opening match of the biennial competition.
Kenya's coach, Italian Shaileen Ramdoo, made strategic substitutions, bringing in Edith Wisa for Trizah Atuka and Jane Wacu for Janet Wanja, which helped the team maintain their lead and secure a 25-21 win in the second set.
In the third set, Ramdoo rested his starters, giving game time to Brackcides Agala, Gladys Ekaru, and Sharon Chepchumba. Kenya started strongly, leading 8-5, 10-7, and 16-10, before the Algerians made a comeback to close the gap to 19-16.
However, Kenya's Immaculate Chemutai made a crucial block and tapped home the clincher, securing a 25-21 win and a 3-0 victory for the team.
"It was a tough game but we won because everyone played her part and showed commitment. We look forward to improve in the next group matches," said Mercy Moim, the team's captain.
The top two teams from both pools will advance to the semi-finals, with Kenya and Cameroon currently leading Pool B with three points each.
