The Kenyan women’s national volleyball team, Malkia Strikers lost 3-1 to Colombia in the FIVB Volleyball Challenger Cup Quarter match played on Friday in Laval, France.

Despite their best efforts, the Kenyan team faced a tough with Colombia claiming the sets 25-22, 21-25, 25-23, and 25-19, securing their place in the semifinals of the Challenger Cup.

Malkia strikers to wait

The defeat marked the end of Kenya’s quest to secure a spot in the prestigious Volleyball Nations League 2024 through this competition.

The loss in the quarterfinals means that Kenya will now have to wait for the final rankings to determine their fate in terms of qualifying for the Volleyball Nations League 2024.

It was an exciting moment for Malkia Strikers as they made their maiden appearance in the esteemed Challenger Cup.

However, facing a formidable opponent in Colombia, who had previously showcased their prowess in the Challenger Cup, Malkia Strikers knew they were in for a fierce battle.

Throughout the match, both teams exhibited remarkable skills, with every point being fiercely contested. Colombia’s outside hitters, Ana Karina Olaya and Amanda Coneo, proved to be a formidable duo, each contributing an impressive 17 points to their team’s tally.

Not to be outdone, Dayana Segovia, Colombia’s opposite player, also showcased her talent with a solid performance, delivering 14 points, all achieved through powerful and strategic kills.

Malkia Strikers top performers

Malkia Strikers, led by their heavy-armed opposite player, Sharon ‘Chumba’ Chepchumba, fought tooth and nail to keep their hopes alive.

Chepchumba emerged as the standout performer of the match, amassing an incredible 28 points, comprising 25 kills, two aces, and one block, truly displaying her exceptional skills on the court.

In addition to Chepchumba’s stellar performance, middle blocker Belinda Barasa and outside hitter Veronica Oluoch made significant contributions, reaching double-digit scores with 12 and 11 points, respectively, adding to the team’s spirited effort.