Nigeria Reach Africa Volleyball Champs Q’Finals

Nigeria have reached the quarter-finals of the 2026 African Men’s Volleyball Nations Championship in Tunisia after a comeback against Algeria.

The Zone 3 champions defeated Algeria 3-2 in their final Group C match on Thursday, securing their place in the knockout stage.

Algeria won the opening set 25-23. Nigeria responded strongly in the second set, taking it 25-19 to level the match.

Algeria regained the advantage in the third set, winning 25-21. Nigeria fought back in the fourth set, winning 25-20 to force a tie-break.

Nigeria prevailed 15-12 in the fifth set, completing the comeback and booking a place in the last eight.

The result followed Nigeria’s opening performance against Chad. The team defeated Chad 3-0 on Wednesday, winning the sets 25-17, 25-17 and 25-16.

Head coach Ryan Masajedi praised his players for their resilience and ability to respond after twice falling behind against Algeria.

He said the victory demonstrated that Nigeria’s opening win over Chad was not accidental, while urging the players to remain focused as they prepare for the next stage.

Nigeria’s qualification keeps alive its ambitions at the championship, where teams are also competing for qualification opportunities for the 2027 FIVB Volleyball World Championship and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

Both teams had won their opening group matches, making the encounter crucial in Group C.

Nigeria’s performance also highlighted the contributions of its attacking players. Jaiyeola scored 28 points, while Udoka added 26. Ozokoye contributed 10 points, including five blocks, as Nigeria established an advantage at the net.

According to tournament statistics, Nigeria scored 15 points from blocks compared with Algeria’s eight, making net play one of the important differences between the teams.

Despite Algeria’s strong challenge, Nigeria repeatedly recovered from difficult situations and maintained its composure during the decisive stages.

With the quarter-final berth secured, Masajedi has urged his players not to become carried away by the victory. The team will now turn its attention to preparations for its next opponent as it seeks to continue its campaign in Tunisia.

Nigeria’s progression provides a boost for the country’s men’s volleyball programme and gives the Zone 3 champions an opportunity to compete for continental honours.