African Games: Nigeria up next for rampaging Malkia Strikers

Kenya national women's volleyball team Malkia Strikers will seek to build on their opening day victory against Seychelles on Saturday afternoon when they face Nigeria at the MUH Multipurpose Hall in Ghana from 1700 EAT.

Still chasing the African Games ‘three peat’ after victories in 2015 and 2019, the Kenyan team believes that whilst Saturday’s game might favor them, tougher tests await deeper in the tournament.

Speaking ahead of the game, team manager Kenneth Tonui told The Star: “We had an opportunity to watch Nigeria against DR Congo and we picked one or two things. I guess we are ready for them.

“Our pool is fairly easy and we will no doubt prevail over the remaining teams,” he added, mentioning that bigger challenges await in the semifinals, where Malkia faces the prospect of facing Egypt.

Against Seychelles, the return of Veronica Adhiambo - who joined the traveling squad just a day from the championships - was instrumental in the 3-0 (25-15, 25-8, 25-21), but will either way be wary of a Nigerian team that also won without dropping a set against DRC.

African Games: Malkia Strikers dust Seychelles to kick off title defense on a high

Meanwhile, the men’s national side - Wafalme Stars - continued their fine form in the championships after beating hosts Ghana 3-0 (25-21, 25-21, 25-14) to register their second victory after dismissing Chad on Wednesday via a similar margin.

Elisha Aliwa’s side will be keen to end their Pool A action with a win on Sunday against Gambia if at all their wish to have a friendlier draw to the championship is to come true.