Malkia Strikers sign off World Champs with historic win

The win saw the ten-time African champions sign off the global fiesta on a high note following a 3-1 sets loss to former European champions Poland and a 3-0 defeat to Germany in the preliminary matches of Group ‘G’.

The 25-23, 25-22, 25-18 victory was more than just a result—it was a landmark moment for the Kenyan lasses, who have only one win under their belt in their last seven appearances at the World Championship.

Kenya defeated Kazakhstan 3-0 sets in 2018 to register their maiden World Volleyball Championship win in Japan, under the tutelage of former head coach Japheth Munala, and another similar win against Cameroon in the 2022 edition held in Serbia.

The opening set was tightly contested, with both sides trading points early on. Kenya leaned on their powerful outside hitters to push ahead, but Vietnam’s quick passing kept the contest alive.

In the closing stages, the Malkia Strikers held their nerve to edge a narrow 25-23 victory.The second set unfolded in similar fashion, with Vietnam battling to stay in touch.

Kenya’s blocking at the net proved crucial, slowing their opponents’ attack and giving the East Africans room to build momentum. A late push from Vietnam threatened to swing the set, but Kenya closed it out 25-22.

By the third set, confidence was flowing through the Kenyan side, sharper serves, tighter defence, and consistent finishing gave them the upper hand as they pulled away to a commanding 25-18 win, sealing the sweep in style.

Head coach Geoffrey Omondi hailed the victory as a turning point for the national team, saying the result restored belief both among the players and back home.

“This win is important since it brings back confidence in the national team."

"From this match we have won both a set and the match. It’s a motivation to the players and even to the young girls at home that it is possible to train well and win,” he said.

The result sees Malkia Strikers finish third in Group G while Poland and Germany advanced to the round of 16 following their two victories in the group.

The two sides are set to battle for a top spot to avoid meeting reigning Olympic and Volleyball Nations League champions Italy in the knockout stages.