Kenya’s U20 men’s volleyball team is facing Egypt in the semifinals of the 2025 CAVB U20 African Championship this Friday, September 19, with the match set for 5:00 pm.
The team will hope to build on a recovery from a shaky start and reach the final, while also securing a berth at the 2026 U21 World Championship.
After losing their opening game 3-1 to Cameroon, Luke Makuto’s squad picked themselves up with strong performances.
They beat Morocco 3-1 (26-24, 30-32, 25-20, 25-21) in a match that saw them fight back under pressure, especially with sharp blocks and serves. Then they defeated Rwanda 3-1 to advance from the group. Their quarterfinal win over Algeria sealed their place in the semis.
“We are going for nothing short of the title at the ongoing 2025 African U20 Nations Championship in Cairo, Egypt,” Team captain Reagan Otieno added.
“We realised the errors we had, especially in setting. It’s a great achievement to have come this far. We hope for the best in the quarters. We look to push through and hopefully secure victory,” Emmanuel Some, Kenya’s setter, said
The provisional squad was cut from 22 to 16, with players drawn from high schools, clubs, and institutions such as Cheptil High School, KAPU, Prisons Kenya, Air Force, and others.
“We are happy with the progress the boys have shown and the commitment they continue to put in. The mood is very positive, and the players know what is at stake,” Coach David Gatuiria, speaking after the trimming, said
Kenya faces a tough opponent in Egypt, the host country, but confidence has grown with each win. Their recent matches have shown improved discipline and mental toughness. If they can maintain their intensity and avoid errors, there is reason to believe they can reach the final.
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