Volleyball Cranes beat South Sudan to set up crunch Kenya clash

Zone V African Nations Championships Qualifiers

Results

Tanzania 1 Burundi 3

Uganda 3 South Sudan 1

Fixtures

Wednesday

Uganda v Kenya 8pm

The Volleyball Cranes followed up their opening-day victory over Burundi with another win against South Sudan, setting up a crucial clash with Kenya tonight at Lugogo Arena.

The national men's team defeated their neighbours South Sudan 3–0 (25–13, 26–24, 29–27) to register their second victory of the tournament, but it was far from straightforward.

South Sudan continually fought their way back into the contest, particularly in the final two sets. They matched the Ugandans point for point and were only broken in the closing stages, highlighting how much they have improved over the last few years.

South Sudan put up a spirited fight but were found wanting during the crucial moments of the match.

"I am very happy with today's victory against South Sudan. It was a hard-fought battle, but we knew going into the match that they are a good side with plenty of exposure. We had a clear game plan to put them under pressure with our serving. I really credit my coaches and teammates for the victory," said middle blocker Willington Talemwa.

Daudi Okello, Gideon Angiro, and Duke Kyomukama all found their rhythm against South Sudan and played key roles in securing the win.

Tonight, Uganda will face their toughest challenge of the tournament when they take on neighbours Kenya. The most important thing for the Volleyball Cranes will be to raise their level and fight for victory, as it is expected to be a fiercely contested encounter.

Lugogo Arena could turn into a cauldron of excitement as the two highest-ranked sides in the tournament face off, with a place at the African Nations Championship at stake and the qualification pathway to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games on the line.

Head coach Shilla Omuriwe has challenged her team to go all the way, secure qualification for the African Nations Championship, and keep their Los Angeles 2028 Olympic dream alive.