2006 World Championships   More World Championship news       Tournament info: Kenya

Kenya and Algeria make perfect start

Nairobi, Kenya, July 20, 2005 – Hosts Kenya beat Congo DRC 3-0 (25-13, 25-10, 25-11) while Algeria beat Congo Brazaville 3-0 (25-8, 25-15, 25-15) in the opening day’s action of the 2006 Women’s World Championship African first round tournament – Pool B in Nairobin Kenya.

The winner of the five day tournament will advance to the final round as the third and final African ticket winner joining Egypt and Cameroon who have already won their respective first round tournaments.

After the organizers delayed the start of the matches following Congo Brazaville’s late arrival, Kenya opened the tournament with victory over DRC Congo. Veterans Dorcas Ndasaba, Emilly Chemutai and libero Mercy Wesitula were outstanding for Kenya while Nancy Koteka, and Bofeyi Bibiche and Claudine Manyinga played their hearts out for DRC Congo, but they could not stop the world number 20 from clinching victory.

Meanwhile, Congo Brazaville had little time for rest before they were easily beaten by Algeria. Despie their late arrival Congo surprised the Algerians with their strong play in the opening two sets before fatigue set in and Algeria finished comfortable winners.

Day two of the tournament on Thursday sees Congo Brazaville play Kenya at 11:00 GMT (14:00 local time) followed by Eritrea playing their first match against Algeria at 13:00 GMT (16:00 local time).