Nigeria’s men’s volleyball team began their African Nations Cup Zone 3 Qualifiers campaign on a winning note with an emphatic 3-1 victory over neighbours Niger Republic.
Nigeria claimed the opening set 25-22 but were pegged back in the second set as Niger responded with a 25-19 win to level the contest.
However, Coach Taiwo Oladipupo’s side showed remarkable character and resilience to regain control of the match.
The Nigerians dominated the third set with a commanding 25-9 victory before sealing the win in the fourth set to secure a 3-1 triumph.
Speaking after the victory, head coach Taiwo Oladipupo praised his players for their fighting spirit and resilience. He also thanked God for what he described as a hard-fought victory.
Nigeria will now shift their focus to a crucial encounter against hosts Ivory Coast later today.
The victory over Niger has provided the Nigerian side with a major confidence boost as they prepare to face the hosts in what promises to be another important fixture in the qualifiers.