Poor start in volleyball qualifiers

Mosah Mokganedi | Tuesday February 25, 2014 15:30

 

Botswana, ranked 84 in the world, was always going to find it difficult against their north African opposition who sit in position 33.

The local girls narrowly lost the first set 25-21 before the gap widened to 25-11 and 25-17 in the second and third sets respectively. Egypt received better and had powerful attacks, which floored Botswana. In their next match Botswana faces a tough test against Algeria, with qualification to the finals looking increasingly remote.  Botswana was supposed to be in action against Ghana yesterday, but the late withdrawal of the West Africans meant the side remained inactive.

Meanwhile, one of the tournament’s favourites, Cameroon won their first match against the Democratic Republic of Congo 3-0. The African Nations Championship silver medallists won in straight sets 25-14, 25-9 and 25-14.

A groundbreaking encounter between Egypt and Cameroon was expected yesterday, while hosts Algeria start their campaign against Nigeria.

 The team that finishes top will join Tunisia to the World Championships billed for Italy in September. With powerhouses like Egypt, Cameroon and Algeria in winning runs, it is difficult to predict who will proceed.

If the Botswana women’s side fails to qualify, it will be another setback for local volleyball fans after the men’s side fell at the final hurdle in their quest to qualify for Poland 2014.