Paris Olympics: False start for Malkia Strikers as Brazil brush off African champions

Malkia Strikers got off to a bad start at the Paris Olympics on Monday afternoon, losing 3-0 to two-time champions Brazil in their opening Group B match at the South Paris Arena 1 in France.

Malkia Strikers, lost in straight sets of 25-14, 25-13, and 25-13 to the world's second-best ranked nation and the Tokyo Games silver medalists.

This was the eighth defeat Malkia had tasted at the hands of Brazil in as many meetings.

With hopes of registering at least a set at the Games, coach apheth Munala fielded an experienced side, starting with Edith Mukuvilani, Loise Simiyu, Pamela Adhiambo, Leonida Kasaya, and Juliana Namutira.

However, Brazil's attack line proved too strong, taking advantage of poor backcourt defense on the Kenyan team to secure an early lead in the opening set.

Kenya staged a remarkable comeback in the first set, recovering from a 2-0 deficit to lead 3-2 but ultimately failed to maintain their momentum as Brazil regained control to win the set 25-14.

The second set was easy for the Brazilians, who won 25-13, and at no point did the 10-time African champions cause trouble for the South American side.

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Malkia came in with more composure and determination to stage a powerful comeback but lost grip at the 2-1 mark, allowing the Brazilians to extend their lead to 9-2.

Two unforced errors by Kenya further allowed Brazil to take command of the set despite numerous technical timeouts called by Malkia's coaching staff.

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Despite an attempted comeback, Kenya lost the third set 25-12, surrendering the match 3-0.

They will now face Japan on Wednesday in their second Group B match.