By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Nigeria have secured a place in the quarterfinals of the 2026 African Men’s Volleyball Nations Championship in Tunisia after edging Algeria 3–2 in a thrilling final Group Stage encounter on Thursday.
The Zone 3 champions recovered from a slow start to defeat the North Africans 23–25, 25–19, 21–25, 25–20, 15–12 and book their place in the last eight.
Algeria claimed the opening set 25–23 after Nigeria initially took the initiative, but the Nigerian side responded emphatically in the second, winning 25–19 to level the contest.
The Algerians regained the advantage in the third set, 25–21, before Nigeria mounted another impressive comeback to take the fourth 25–20 and force a decisive tie-break.
With the quarterfinal ticket at stake, Nigeria held their nerve to win the fifth set 15–12 and complete a hard-fought victory.
Head coach Ryan Masajedi praised the players for their resilience, saying the team showed character after surrendering the opening set.
“I am impressed with the way the players picked up after losing the first set. The set was in our hands, but the Algerians were lucky it went in their favour,” Masajedi said.
The Japanese tactician added that the victory demonstrated that Nigeria’s opening win over Chad was no fluke, but the product of hard work and determination.
Masajedi said the team needed to beat Algeria to avoid facing unnecessary difficulties in the next phase of the competition.
He described the victory as a statement of Nigeria’s growing strength at the championship, while urging his players to remain focused ahead of the quarterfinals.
“We started the tournament playing Chad, and the victory against Algeria has cemented us amongst the favourites at the Nations Championship,” he said.
Masajedi also thanked Nigerians at home for their prayers, support and encouragement throughout the tournament.
Nigeria will now turn their attention to the quarterfinal stage as they continue their quest for continental honours and a strong showing at the championship.
