Pipeline, Prisons, KCB and DCI storm to Kenya Cup semi-finals
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Reading Time: 4min | Sat. 11.07.26. | 16:04
Former champions Kenya Pipeline sent an early warning to their title rivals with a commanding straight-sets victory over A Plus
Volleyball heavyweights Kenya Pipeline, Kenya Prisons, KCB and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) booked their places in the semi-finals of the 2026 Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) Kenya Cup after impressive victories at the Nyayo Gymnasium on Friday.
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Kenya Pipeline
Former champions Kenya Pipeline sent an early warning to their title rivals with a commanding straight-sets victory over A Plus, barely allowing their opponents a foothold throughout the contest.
The Oilers dominated from the opening whistle, combining powerful attacks, disciplined defending and accurate serving to complete a one-sided 3-0 win with set scores of 25-10, 25-9 and 25-15.
Their outstanding display saw Cynthia Chepkemoi named the Player of the Match.
Kenya Prisons
Kenya Prisons also eased into the last four after brushing aside Nairobi Prisons in another straight-sets victory.
The wardresses were tested in a closely fought opening set before edging their rivals 25-22.
Once they settled into their rhythm, Kenya Prisons completely took over the match, cruising to 25-10 and 25-5 victories in the next two sets to wrap up a comfortable 3-0 triumph.
Setter Mackline Okoko was named Player of the Match after orchestrating Kenya Prisons' dominant performance.
KCB
KCB completed the semi-final line-up after defeating Postbank in an entertaining Bankers' Derby.
KCB raced through the opening two sets 25-14 and 25-13 to move within touching distance of victory.
Postbank looked set to extend the contest after opening a six-point lead in the third set, but KCB produced a remarkable comeback to snatch the set 25-23 and seal another straight-sets victory.
DCI
DCI secured the final semi-final ticket after surviving a spirited comeback from Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in the day's most thrilling encounter.
DCI appeared to be cruising after taking the opening two sets 25-19 and 25-15, but KDF responded strongly to claim the next two sets 25-22 and 25-19, forcing a decisive fifth set.
With the match hanging in the balance, DCI held their nerve in the tiebreaker, edging KDF 15-13 to complete a hard-fought 3-2 victory and keep their title hopes alive.
The four victories set up a blockbuster semi-final line-up featuring four of the country's strongest women's volleyball sides as they battle for a place in the Kenya Cup final.
Men's Kenya Cup
Earlier in the day, defending men's champions General Service Unit (GSU) began their title defence with a convincing 3-0 victory over newly promoted Bunge.
GSU controlled the match from start to finish, winning 25-15, 25-18 and 25-18, with setter Emmanuel Some earning the Player of the Match award.
KDF
Kenya Defence Forces also advanced to the men's quarter-finals after defeating National Youth Service (NYS) 3-1.
KDF claimed the opening two sets 25-19 and 25-19 before NYS pulled one back 25-21.
However, KDF regained control in the fourth set, winning 25-17 to complete the victory. Opposite hitter, Moses Kiptoo, was named Player of the Match.
Equity Bank
Equity Bank also progressed after recovering from a slow start to beat Eldowas 3-1.
The Bankers dropped the opening set 25-22 before responding with three successive wins of 25-22, 25-15 and 25-14 to secure their place in the quarter-finals. Abel Kipkoech was named Player of the Match.
Despite seeing his side eliminated, Bunge head coach Gideon Chenje remained upbeat, saying the Kenya Cup campaign had provided valuable exposure ahead of the National League season.
"First, I want to thank God for how far we have come. Our qualification for the Kenya Cup began in Eldoret at the Tarus Cup last December, where we finished eighth to secure qualification.
The Kenya Cup has really helped expose our boys and prepare us for the National League in the coming weeks," said Chenje.
He attributed the defeat to limited preparation after his team secured promotion from Division Two.
"We had a short break after finishing the league and only managed to train for two days. There was also a bit of relaxation after achieving promotion, but we have learned from this experience."
Chenje expressed confidence that Bunge would be ready for life in the National League.
"We are not losing heart. The team will take a one-month break before we return for preparations. I understand what it takes to compete at that level, and we will work hard to ensure we are ready."