BJK Cup 2023: Team Kenya call on fans to turn up for crucial decider against Nigeria

Team Kenya, who are the hosts of the ongoing 2023 Billie Jean King Cup, have sent out a rallying call to Kenyan fans all over Nairobi to show up for their clash against Nigeria on Friday that will determine who gets the precious chance to contest in the promotion playoff match to the Euro/Africa Group II next year.

Having won all of their opening four games against Morocco, Botswana, Uganda and Namibia in results that sees them top Pool A on 4 points, one ahead of the chasing pack, Kenya need nothing short of a win to safely confirm their spot in the promotion playoff tie that will be played on Saturday against winners in Pool B.

Speaking after the 3-0 victory over Namibia on Thursday, coach Francis Rogoi, who was impressed with the display on the day called on fans to come and help the team get over the line in the deciding match against the West Africans.

“We have had four long days. Today the girls will rest a bit early so that tomorrow (Friday) we start our match with a bang. If we start the first match well, it will give us the motivation going into the second Singles and also into the Doubles so we are looking forward to tomorrow.

BJK Cup 2023: Perfect Kenya go top of Pool A after feisty Morocco whitewash Nigeria

So we urge, all Kenyans to come in tomorrow to play with us, to fight with us so that we can win together,” the coach rallied.

Facing a Nigerian side who saw their 100% streak in the tournament shattered following their 3-0 whitewash against top seeds Morocco, the West Africans will be out to put their house in order knowing that a win and other results going their way could still see them grab the ticket to the promotion playoff match.

Coach Rogoi called on his team to believe in themselves ahead of the tie if they want to progress.

“At this stage, self-confidence is key. When the ladies believe more in themselves, they will be able to strike better,” he said.

The head coach also revealed that local star Cynthia Wanjala was in much better shape after struggling in her match on Thursday where she beat Lisa Lia Yssel 6-4, 6-2.

“Some mornings can be a bit slow. Cynthia had a slow morning and she was not 100% but she went to recover with the physio and I believe she is okay now,” he noted.

Kenya's top seed Angella Okutoyi on her part promised that the team would take one game at a time in their quest of winning Pool A.

"I know tomorrow is not going to be an easy match definitely but I am just trying to play my game and be myself and for the team we are taking each opponent and one match at a time," she said.

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The match is scheduled to serve off at 1000EAT.