By Aderonke Ojo
Saly (Senegal), Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) recorded impressive victories on Monday as the CAVB Beach Volleyball Youth Development Cup began in Saly, Senegal.
Nigeria made a strong start in the women’s U18 category, securing two straight-set victories.
The Nigerian side defeated The Gambia 2-0 (21-9, 21-13) in their opening match before beating Cape Verde 2-0 (21-7, 21-3).
Host Senegal also recorded notable results in the women’s event.
Senegal B defeated Egypt 2-1 (22-20, 21-17, 15-10), while Senegal overcame Mozambique 2-1 (21-16, 19-21, 15-13) in another closely contested encounter.
Egypt later bounced back from its defeat to Senegal B with a 2-1 victory over Senegal, winning 14-21, 21-14, 15-9.
Tunisia also opened its campaign with a 2-0 victory over Cape Verde (21-14, 21-10).
In the men’s U18 category, DR Congo emerged as one of the early standout teams after recording two victories.
DR Congo defeated Morocco 2-0 (21-14, 21-19) before securing another straight-set win over Ghana, 21-19, 21-15.
The host nation also enjoyed a productive day in the men’s competition.
Senegal defeated Ghana 2-0 (21-18, 21-13), with Ghana conceding the match on medical grounds, before beating Namibia 2-0 (21-13, 21-14).
Senegal A recorded another victory against South Africa, winning 2-0 (21-15, 22-20), while Sierra Leone defeated South Africa 2-0 (21-14, 21-11).
The opening day featured several competitive encounters and highlighted the growing standard of youth beach volleyball on the continent.
Nigeria and DR Congo made strong early statements, while Senegal’s results across both categories underlined the advantage of playing on home soil.
The competition continues on Tuesday, with teams expected to intensify their efforts as they battle for honours in the championship.
