The Algerian national men's volleyball team has successfully achieved its primary goal at the 25th edition of the African Championship held in Tunisia from September 13 to 25, 2026, by securing a coveted spot in the 2027 World Championship. This remarkable feat was accomplished through a resounding victory over their Moroccan counterparts with a score of 3 sets to none.
Under the guidance of coach Badis Okarash, the team entered the decisive match for third place with unwavering determination and vigor. They displayed exceptional skill and teamwork on the court, aiming to secure the third-place position that would grant them a direct qualification for the World Championship in Poland in 2027. Given that Africa had only three spots available, the Algerian squad showcased an impressive performance in both offensive and defensive strategies, effectively correcting the errors that emerged during their semifinal match against Cameroon, particularly in the crucial net area that is vital for blocking and converting plays into points. The first set concluded favorably for Algeria at 25-19, and although the second set saw a tighter competition, the team maintained their focus, ultimately winning 25-21. The third set was tactically executed, allowing Algeria to seal the match with a 25-18 victory. This triumph not only secured the bronze medal but also confirmed their qualification for the upcoming World Championship, marking a significant milestone for the current coaching staff.
A Promising Young Team and Acceptable Results
The Algerian national team comprised a group of young players who were participating in the African Championship for the first time. They started the tournament in Group C alongside Chad and Nigeria, achieving a decisive 3-0 victory against Chad but facing a setback against Nigeria, losing 3-1. Nevertheless, they advanced to the quarterfinals as the second seed. The team, led by captain Abou Ayoub Mohamed Walid, displayed a much-improved performance against Kenya, securing another 3-0 win. The quarterfinal match was a thrilling derby against the previous champion and tournament favorite, the Egyptian team. This encounter was more than just a match; it was a clash between the reigning champion and the runner-up from the last edition, attracting significant attention. Despite winning the first set, the Algerians faced a strong comeback from the Egyptians, who claimed the second and third sets. However, the Algerian players regrouped in the fourth set, forcing a decisive fifth set, which they won 15-13 after a remarkable comeback. Unfortunately, they could not replicate their success in the semifinals, losing to Cameroon, but their primary goal remained: to qualify for the World Championship, which they achieved by defeating Morocco in the third-place match.
Coach and Players Reflect on the Achievement
National coach Badis Okarash expressed his joy at securing third place in the African Championship, stating, "I am very happy with our third-place finish in the African Championship held in Tunisia, as our primary goal set by the Algerian Volleyball Federation was to qualify for the upcoming World Championship in Poland in 2027." He further noted that the level of competition in the African Championship has significantly improved in recent years, particularly in physical aspects, due to the emergence of several teams that now play competitively for titles. Okarash emphasized that they will work diligently to ensure optimal readiness for the World Championship to honor the national flag.
Player Abderraheem Aouar highlighted their efforts to secure the win in the classification match to guarantee World Championship qualification, stating, "The competition was incredibly intense considering the fierce rivalry between the participating teams in this edition." He acknowledged the challenges faced during the ranking match but emphasized their achievement of the crucial goal of qualifying for the World Championship, especially with a young squad participating for the first time at this level. Aouar praised the organizational quality of the African Championship, expressing gratitude to his teammates for their hard work that led to their third-place finish and World Championship qualification, despite their aspirations to reach the final.
Experienced captain Youssef Broba remarked on the significant efforts made throughout the competition, stating, "The level of African volleyball is continually evolving, leading to a high standard in this edition of the championship. I believe this progress will serve us well for future preparations, enhancing our technical, physical, and mental readiness. Now that we have qualified for the World Championship, I promise the Algerian public that the future looks bright."
As reported by ech-chaab.com.
