Malkia Strikers pick third friendly win in Brazil

The national women’s volleyball team defeated Vinhedo VC 3-0 (28-26, 25-13, 25-23) in their latest friendly match today in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

The win was their third victory in ten matches since they landed in the South American nation for their High Performance Training ahead of next month’s World Championships.

The World Championships is scheduled for September 23 to October 15 in Poland and the Netherlands.

Kenya and continent rivals Cameroon are in tricky Pool "A" of the global competition with hosts Netherlands, Italy, Belgium and Puerto Rico.

In their maiden victory at the two-month training, Malkia Strikers recorded a 3-1 (20-25, 25-22, 27-25, 25-21) win against Bradesco Esportes before registering their second triumph against Sesi Sorocaba (3-0).

Among the clubs Kenya has played are their hosts Osasco and Esporte Clube Pinheiros including the Brazilian national Under-21 team.

Reigning Africa’s Most Valuable Player Sharon Chepchumba is optimistic they will hit top form before leaving for the Worlds.

“We’ve really improved in all the areas and we hope to be at our peak before heading to Netherlands. Personally, I feel ready and I would be a different player at the championship,” said Chepchumba, who plays as an opposite hitter.

The Brazil training camp is sponsored by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) through their Volleyball Empowerment Programme in Africa.