Kenya’s quest to triumph over Brazil in women’s volleyball remains elusive as the Malkia Strikers were defeated 3-0 by the South Americans in their opening match of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games at the South Paris Arena 6 on Monday.

The Malkia Strikers, part of Group B alongside Brazil, Japan, and Poland, have previously faced the same scoreline defeat against Brazil in the Tokyo 2020 and Athens 2004 Olympics.

Under the guidance of coach Japheth Munala, Kenya held their ground against the Tokyo 2020 silver medallists during the initial stages of the first set. Kenya scored the opening point and maintained a competitive edge until the score was tied at 3-3. However, the seasoned Brazilian team soon widened the gap, ultimately winning the first set 25-14.

The second set began similarly, with Kenya scoring first. Yet, the Brazilian team quickly regained control, equalizing and then extending their lead, winning the set 25-13.

Setting modest goals for Paris 2024, the Malkia Strikers aimed to win a set, a match, and consistently score double figures in each set. However, trailing 2-0 by the third set, achieving these goals seemed increasingly difficult.

Historically, Kenya had faced Brazil seven times before Paris 2024, losing each match without securing a single set.

In the third set, the Malkia Strikers fell behind early, managing to tie the score only once at 1-1. Brazil dominated, often scoring three points for every Kenyan response. Swiftly establishing a 10-point lead, Brazil continued to outpace Kenya, who lagged 16-6 before briefly rallying to match points. However, Brazil finished strong, closing the set at 25-12 and the match at 3-0.

Kenya looks to bounce back in their upcoming matches against Poland on July 31 and Japan on August 3. Despite a winless record in 10 previous encounters with these teams, the Malkia Strikers remain hopeful for a breakthrough.