Nigeria bounce back from second-set setback to beat Senegal at African Championship

Posted : 01 September 2026

Nigeria’s senior women’s volleyball team recovered from a second-set setback to defeat Senegal 3-1 in a classification match for positions 9-15 at the African Volleyball Championship in Nairobi, Kenya.

Nigeria dominated the opening set 25-17 and appeared in control before Senegal produced a spirited response to win the second set 26-24 and level the contest.

The Nigerian team, however, regained its composure and stepped up its performance in the third set, cruising to a convincing 25-12 victory.

They maintained their momentum in the fourth set, winning 25-20 to seal the match and continue their push for a top-10 finish at the championship.

Nigeria’s victory was underpinned by a superior all-round performance, particularly from the service line and at the net.

The team recorded 10 aces against Senegal’s one and produced 12 blocks, compared with five by their opponents.

Nigeria also registered 44 kills to Senegal’s 36 and capitalised on 34 errors committed by the Senegalese side.

Coach Elishama Elam described the victory as an important result for the team’s confidence as the classification battle continues.

“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 after the match.

The coach, however, reserved praise for Senegal, describing the team as youthful and increasingly competitive as it gains experience at the championship.

“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.

Elam noted that while both teams have similar average ages, Nigeria’s greater experience proved useful in a closely contested 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.

Beyond the court, the Nigerian coach expressed appreciation for the support the team has received from Kenyan fans throughout the championship.

Elam said the warm reception from the host nation had created a special bond between the Nigerian team and the Kenyan supporters.

“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.”

The victory keeps Nigeria’s campaign in the classification phase on course as the team continues its quest to secure a top-10 finish at the championship.

Nigeria bounce back from second-set setback to beat Senegal at African Championship

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