By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Nigeria’s senior men’s volleyball team will face Morocco in the quarterfinals of the 2026 African Men’s Nations Volleyball Championship on Monday, September 21.
Morocco booked their place in the last eight after defeating the Democratic Republic of Congo 3-0 (25-20, 25-21, 29-27) in the Round of 16 on Saturday.
Ahead of the crucial encounter, Nigeria head coach Ryan Masajedi says the team has identified areas to exploit in the Moroccan side and believes Nigeria can cause an upset.
Masajedi revealed that he watched Morocco’s Round of 16 victory over DR Congo alongside his players, allowing the coaching crew to assess both their strengths and weaknesses.
“I watched the match between Morocco and DR Congo in the Round of 16 with the players and saw their weaknesses and their strengths.
“They understand volleyball, they play with a system and they are consistent,” Masajedi said.
The Nigerian coach, however, noted that Morocco showed vulnerabilities in reception, particularly when placed under pressure.
“The North African side were many points behind, but they came back and eventually won 3-0.
“I think the serve is very important for us. They have a problem with their reception,” he added.
Masajedi said the Nigerian coaching crew will work on a tactical plan aimed at exploiting those weaknesses while maintaining defensive discipline.
“If we make good serves, some good blocks, good defence and win the break points, we have a big chance to get the better of them,” he said.
Nigeria will now look to execute that plan on Monday as they battle for a place in the semifinals of the continental championship.
