Dare Gatusso
Nigerian men have qualified for the quarterfinals of the 2026 African Men’s Volleyball Nations Championship in Tunisia.
Nigeria defeated Algeria in a five-set thriller (23-25, 25-19, 21-25, 25-20, 15-12) in their final group-stage match on Thursday, September 17.
The Zone 3 champions started the first set on a high note, taking the lead, but the North African side took over to win 25-23.
Nigeria came out strong in the second set, sending Algeria to the cleaners and securing a vital 25-19 points before slumbering in the third set, as it ended in favour of the North African team 25-21 points.
The Sub-Saharan team staged another comeback, taking the fourth set 25-20 points before winning the tie-breaker 15-12 points.
Nigeria’s coach, Ryan Masajedi, hailed the resilience of the players during the vital match. Masajedi explained that Nigeria needed to win the match and avoid struggling in the Round of 16.
The Japanese said, “I am impressed with the way the players picked up after losing the first set. The set was in our but the Algerians were lucky it went in their favour.
“The players have once again shown that they can perform under any circumstances, and they picked up after the first set, and we ended up winning the match.
“We started the tournament playing Chad, and the victory against Algeria has cemented us amongst the favourites at the Nations Championship.”
He charged the players not to be carried away by the win once again, urging them to prepare for their next opponent.
Masajedi applauded Nigerians back home for their prayers, support and words of encouragement during the championship.
