Malkia Strikers camp in high spirits ahead of African tourney draw

National women's volleyball team Malkia Strikers are ready to face any team in the 12-team CAVB African Nations Championship slated to serve off on Wednesday 16 August in Cameroon.

Under coach Luizomar de Moura who is assisted by Paul Bitok and others, the African queens say they are ready to face whichever team with eyes firmly set on reclaiming the title and qualifying for Paris Olympics. 

What pressure! Malkia Strikers ready to reclaim African title

The draw for the competition is slated for Tuesday 15 August from 7 pm EAT.

"Despite all the initial challenges before the start of the program in Morocco, the team has settled well. We have prepared to the best of our ability and are confident of emerging top in this competition," Brazilian tactician Moura said in a meeting with the team sponsors Mozzart Bet in Yaounde. 

The team is set to renew their rivalry with three-time champions, Cameroon, who have denied the Kenyans three times in a row but the hosts are not the only threat. 

North Africans Egypt who have won thrice and have been second in as many championships, winning bronze four times also pose a big threat for Malkia. 

While giving them one last pep talk before a final friendly match against Rwanda on Tuesday afternoon, team manager Roberto “Beto” Opice Neto said the team has had good preparations, confirming that morale is high and the team is ready for action. 

"These players are representing not just the team but an entire country and have the chance to inspire the next generation. Just like the coach has said, we are very ready and I believe the players know what's at stake. 

We are lucky to have a sponsor who has walked this journey with us in Mozzart Bet and we have to thank them and reward their faith with the best performance here," Beto said. 

The title sponsors Mozzart Bet who were represented in the meeting by Marketing Manager Frank Okoth who came bearing goodies for the squad challenged the players to go for their dreams. 

"As a company, we are delighted to be walking this journey to the World stage with you. This is a golden opportunity to make your dreams come true as players. My only challenge is that you should first do this for yourselves before thinking of the country or your supporters. 

Mozzart Bet has played their part so has the government and everyone else that extended a helping hand. Now the ball is on your court," he offered. 

Confirmed countries for the CAVB African Nations Championship

1. Morocco 

2. Algeria 

3. Nigeria 

4. Egypt 

5. Mali 

6. Lesotho 

7. Uganda 

8. Kenya 

9. Burkina Faso 

10. Rwanda 

11. Cameroon 

12. Burundi