Morocco test for Malkia Strikers as chase for Paris Olympics slot continues

Malkia Strikers face what is easily their toughest test in the group stage when they take on North African rivals Morocco in Game Four of the ongoing CAVB African Nations Championship in Yaounde, Cameroon. 

The African Queens have been undefeated in the group stage so far, beating Rwanda, Burkina Faso and Uganda by straight-sets, a record coach Luizomar de Moura will be happy to keep. 

With the return of the injured Sharon Chepchumba and Veronica Adhiambo at her peak, this match-up against Morocco should be one for the books. 

Both sides are looking to extend their unbeaten run in the group stage for a slot as the best placed side in pool B. 

Coach Luizomar is, however, confident his charges have what it takes to withstand the North Africans onslaught. 

"The mental character of the team is showing with each challenge we face. We have a target and a mission and I am happy that each player is getting stronger with each match. 

For the last two matches we couldn't have a training session before the match but considering that we are playing at 4pm, we will get in some training in the morning to correct our mistakes from the last 3 matches and keep the winning momentum going when we face Morocco," Luizomar offered. 

The tactician further maintains that as the competition progresses, his squad rotation is likely to keep changing based on the needs of each match.

Explaining his decision to field Trizah Atuka for Belinda Barasa, Luizomar acknowledged that this competition requires the experience she boasts. 

Malkia Strikers will complete their group stage matches with a clash against Lesotho who should offer little competition for a team of Kenya's calibre.