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Kenya's Malkia Strikers will face Brazil in their Olympic opener aiming to surpass previous performances with robust preparation and team spirit.
Kenya national women’s volleyball team Malkia Strikers is set to launch their Paris Olympics 2024 campaign with a challenging opener against two-time champions Brazil.
The highly anticipated match will take place on Monday at the South Paris Arena, kicking off at 2:00 PM East African Time.
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Malkia Strikers, 10-time African champions, are yet to win a single set in their Olympic history.
Despite this, head coach Japheth Munala remains optimistic about their chances in the opening match.
“Brazil has won this tournament before but we are fearless, we have prepared well and we are ready to face them on Monday. We have agreed with the players to give it all in the match and come out with victory,” Munala remarked.
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The team's preparation included participation in the FIVB Challenger Cup in Manila, Philippines, where they reached the quarter-final stage before being knocked out by Puerto Rico.
Following this, the Malkia Strikers spent two weeks training in Miramas, Southern France, before heading to Paris.
“We have already polished on all the aspects of our play including the service, defence, striking, and reception,” Munala added.
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Kenya Volleyball Federation deputy President and former head coach Paul Bitok believes that the time is ripe for Kenya to break past their group phase jinx.
“They should be able to work as a team, polish up on the reception and attack strongly. I believe this time round Kenya can get out of the group,” Bitok intimated.
The Malkia Strikers will be spearheaded by captain and middle blocker Trizah Atuka, along with charismatic opposite Sharon ‘Chumba’ Kiprono and talented libero Aggripina Kundu.
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Greek-based outside hitter Veronica Adhiambo will also be a key player for the team.
The setters, Esther Mutinda and Immaculate Nekesa, are expected to provide crucial playmaking, while opposite player Pamela Adhiambo, who impressed during the Challenger Cup, will play a pivotal role in Kenya's quest for their first-ever Olympic win.
Historically, Kenya has faced Brazil seven times, including matches in the World Cup, World Championships, and previous Olympic Games.
Brazil has dominated all seven encounters winning all 21 sets played.
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In their second consecutive Olympic appearance, the Malkia Strikers aim to surpass their previous performances having failed to advance past the group stage in their four prior Olympic outings.
After the Brazil duel on Monday Kenya will face two-time bronze medalists Poland on Wednesday.
They will conclude their Pool B campaign against Japan, the 1964 and 1976 Olympic gold medalists, on August 3rd at the South Paris Arena.
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