This archive report was first published on 7 January 2020.
Kenya's chances of representing Africa at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics have received a boost after Botswana coach Augusto Sabbatini tipped them to win the coveted spot.
Speaking after Kenya thrashed Botswana in straight sets (25-17, 25-19, 25-18) to go top of the standings with six points, Sabbatini praised Kenya's well-coordinated game and good organization on court.
“Kenya have a good coach and also good organization on court. Everything about their game is well coordinated and you can see the coaching staff has done its home work well. I foresee Kenya at the Olympics,” said Sabbatini, a Brazilian coach seconded to Botswana by the world governing body FIVB.
Despite picking Kenya as the winner of their highly anticipated clash, Sabbatini noted that the match will be determined by fine margins.
“Both teams have played in big tournaments so they are on the same level technically. It will go down to details and I hope to watch a spectacle,” said Sabbatini, who admitted his side was inferior to the two giants.
