Malkia Strikers fall to Germany in World Volleyball Championships opener

The ten-time African champions started strongly, running Germany close in the opening set before narrowly losing 25-22.

However, the Europeans dominated the second set 25-8 with sharp attacks and solid digs that broke Kenya’s rhythm.

Kenya regrouped in the third set and fought point-for-point, but Germany’s experience saw them close out the match 25-20.

Captain Meldina Sande said the team showed spirit against a higher-ranked side.

“The attitude towards the Germany game was good. We had trained well and hoped for a better result.”

“Germany has been performing well on the world stage, but we came in as African champions to do our best.”

“Our intention is to try and win games or even take a set from the big teams. We will push harder for the next game,” she said.

Germany captain Camila Vaitsel admitted they had little knowledge of Kenya’s style of play but were impressed with their resistance.

“We had never faced Kenya before and were surprised by how well they defended and their hard hitting."

"In the second set we focused on reducing pressure, waited for timing to strike, and it worked,” she commented.

Head coach Geoffrey Omondi praised his players’ effort but stressed the need for composure.

“I’m proud, though not fully satisfied. We had hoped to get at least one or two sets."

"The experience of playing on the big stage helped Germany. We need to be more confident even under pressure and remain composed."

"Going forward, we must play more friendly matches against elite sides for exposure,” he explained.

Malkia Strikers will next face former European champions Poland, ranked third in the world, on Monday before wrapping up Group D action against Vietnam, ranked 22nd, on Wednesday.

The Kenyan lasses lost in straight sets against Poland during their last encounter at the Paris Olympics last year.

Germany, ranked 11th, are now just one win away from securing a place in the round of 16, while Kenya, ranked 27th, will be seeking their first-ever win at this level.

The championship is being held in Bangkok, Nakhon Ratchasima, Phuket and Chiang Mai, with the top two sides in each pool qualifying for the round of 16 stage.