Nigeria bounced back from losing the second set to defeat Senegal 3-1 in their classification match for ninth to 15th positions at the African Volleyball Championship in Nairobi, Kenya, on Monday. The Nigerian women made a strong start, taking the opening set 25-17, but Senegal responded in a closely fought second set, edging it 26-24 […]
Nigeria bounced back from losing the second set to defeat Senegal 3-1 in their classification match for ninth to 15th positions at the African Volleyball Championship in Nairobi, Kenya, on Monday.
The Nigerian women made a strong start, taking the opening set 25-17, but Senegal responded in a closely fought second set, edging it 26-24 to level the contest.
Nigeria regained control in the third set, dominating 25-12 before completing the victory with a 25-20 win in the fourth set.
The result was underlined by Nigeria’s superiority in several key statistical areas. They recorded 10 aces to Senegal’s one and produced 12 blocks compared with five by their opponents.
Nigeria also registered 44 kills against Senegal’s 36, while the Senegalese committed 34 errors during the encounter.
Nigeria head coach Elishama Elam described the victory as an important boost to his team’s confidence as they continue their classification campaign.
“The victory means a lot to the team. It gives us confidence and motivates us to continue improving so that we can put ourselves in a very good position. That is our prayer,” Elam said.
The coach also praised Senegal’s progress since the group stage, describing their opponents as a young side gaining valuable experience as the championship progresses.
“Of course, they have improved. They are a very youthful team, and they are picking up experience as they progress in the competition,” Elam said.
He noted that although the two teams have similar average ages, Nigeria’s greater experience contributed to what proved to be a competitive encounter.
“That is why we had a very good and competitive match. However, we give glory to God for giving us the victory,” he added.
Elam hails Kenyan support
Elam also expressed his appreciation for the support Nigeria has received from Kenyan fans throughout the championship.
“We are very proud of them. One good thing about Kenyans is that they are an English-speaking country, and honestly, I don’t know how to appreciate them enough,” he said.
“They are actually in love with the Nigerian team, and we also give that love back to them. We appreciate the Kenyan people with all our hearts. Thank you.”
Nigeria’s victory keeps their classification campaign on course as they continue their bid to secure a top-10 finish at the championship.
