Misrata, Libya provided a fantastic setting for the inaugural U17 Boy’s African Volleyball Nations Championship, with an electric atmosphere seen across the competition and fans throughout the country tuning in to watch the highly anticipated matches.
Egypt have been crowned the champions of the tournament, after beating hosts Libya 3-0 (25-19, 25-20, 25-16) in the final.
It was the perfect climax for the junior players, who won the tournament unbeaten and without dropping a set in the six matches they played.
Tunisia defeated Cameroon 3-1 (23-25, 25-20, 25-19, 25-22) in the third-place playoff to claim the bronze medal in the competition that attracted five teams namely Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Cameroon and Morocco.
The top three countries—Egypt, Libya and Tunisia—will represent Africa in the inaugural FIVB Volleyball U17 World Championships, scheduled for August next year.
Enroute the final, Egypt beat Cameroon in straight sets (25-20, 25-20, 25-10) in the semi-finals while Libya—backed by an enthusiastic home crowd–were forced to dig deep to overcome Tunisia 3-1 (28-26, 28-30, 25-23, 37-35).
The preliminary round was played in round robin format, with the top four teams qualifying for the semi-finals.
Egypt emerged top of the draw with 12 points drawn from four straight sets wins while Tunisia settled second with 8 points. Libya were third with 7 points as Cameroon came fourth with 3 points. Morocco finished bottom without a point after narrowly missing out on a win throughout their campaign.
The Dream Team at the inaugural Boys Africa Under-17 Nations Championship held in Misrata, Libya. (Photo credits: CAVB)
Egypt dominated the Dream Team with three players namely Mohanad Basha (best libero), Ahmed Amer (best middle blocker) and Hamza Ahmed (Most Valuable Player). Tunisia’s Ilyess Alimi was named best setter while his teammate Omar Hfaeidh emerged best outside hitter.
Libya’s Aizeen Ayoud al Baghdad received the best opposite award and his compatriot Balnnour Muezbillah Saleh was named best outside hitter. Houmsou Prosper of Cameroon completed the Dream Team as best middle blocker.
