Kenya Volleyball Team Crowned Africa Champions Following A Win Against Al Ahly

Kenya Volleyball Team Crowned Africa Champions Following A Win Against Al Ahly

Kenya volleyball team crowned Africa champions following an emphatic 3-1 sets win against Al Ahly of Egypt in Kilebia, Tunisia.

With a 16-year wait in mind, KCB, Kenya’s volleyball team got off the canvas and lifted the championship record-holders off their feet with a huge uppercut that sent shockwaves through the sport dismissing them in sets of 25-18, 25-22, 11-25, 28-26 to have their second title and their first since 2006.

The Bankers won the first two sets in quick succession (25-18,25-22) but the opponents regrouped in the third set (11-25) with poor reception and unforced errors costing the Japheth Munala-coached side a straight-sets win.

After the Egyptians threw the spanner in the works in the third set, KCB coach made few changes in the forth set and his charges materialised clinching the toe-to-toe fourth set in 28-26.

After the win, Kenyans broke into dance, hugging and pecking while others just sunk to their knees.

Paul Bitok, who the team’s technical director who led the team that won the championship in 2006, expressed his gaiety following the feat.

“It is unbelievable, to be honest. It has been about 16 years since we last won a continental trophy. I am proud of this group of ladies. We utilized the Covid-19 pandemic to adequately prepare for this tournament and today, we have reaped the fruits of our hard work,” said Bitok, who is also the national women’s team head coach.

Head coach Munala was praised for the Lionesses performance in the African championship since the team displayed quality play in the entire competition.

“I am profoundly grateful to God, KCB Bank, and this team for the amazing experience here in Tunisia. We came here knowing the quality of our opponents and we did not take any side for granted. We have been solid throughout the tournament and the girls have been exceptional. They deserve it,” he said.

In the same venue, Kenya Pipeline defeated immediate champions Carthage by 3-2 sets to win bronze while Kenya Prisons finished fifth.