By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo made strong statements on the opening day of the CAVB Beach Volleyball Youth Development Cup in Saly, Senegal, as Africa’s emerging U18 beach volleyball stars began their quest for honours.
Nigeria dominated the women’s competition, securing two impressive straight-set victories. They opened their campaign with a commanding 2-0 win over The Gambia, taking the sets 21-9, 21-13, before producing an even more emphatic performance against Cape Verde, winning 21-7, 21-3.
The hosts, Senegal, also enjoyed a productive opening day, recording multiple victories across the women’s and men’s competitions. Senegal B defeated Egypt 2-1 (22-20, 21-17, 15-10), while Senegal edged Mozambique 2-1 (21-16, 19-21, 15-13). Egypt later bounced back against Senegal with a 2-1 comeback victory, winning 14-21, 21-14, 15-9. Tunisia also began strongly with a 2-0 victory over Cape Verde (21-14, 21-10).
In the men’s U18 competition, DR Congo emerged as one of the standout teams of the day, recording two straight-set victories. They defeated Morocco 2-0 (21-14, 21-19) before overcoming Ghana 2-0 (21-19, 21-15).
Senegal continued their impressive run in the men’s event, defeating Ghana 2-0 (21-18, 21-13) before beating Namibia 2-0 (21-13, 21-14). Senegal A also secured a 2-0 victory over South Africa, winning 21-15, 22-20 in another entertaining encounter.
Sierra Leone added to South Africa’s difficult opening day with a convincing 2-0 victory, winning 21-14, 21-11.
The opening day provided plenty of excitement in Saly, with closely fought matches, three-set thrillers and impressive performances highlighting the growing depth of youth beach volleyball across Africa.
Nigeria and DR Congo have emerged as early teams to watch, while Senegal’s strong showing on home soil has further raised expectations ahead of the remaining matches.
With the competition set to intensify on Day Two, Africa’s future beach volleyball stars will be looking to build on their opening performances and move closer to championship glory.
