Petrojet halt APR’s perfect run as Nigeria Customs reaches last 16 at African Club Championship

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By Maxwell Kumoye 
 

 

Rwanda’s APR VC saw their unbeaten streak come to an end after a commanding straight-sets defeat to Egypt’s Petrojet Volleyball Club in their final Group A clash at the Africa Men’s Club Volleyball Championship on Monday.

Playing at the BK Arena, APR fell 3-0 (25-18, 25-18, 29-27) in a match that ultimately decided top spot in the group. 

Despite the setback, APR still advanced to the knockout stage alongside fellow qualifiers, including Nigeria’s Nigeria Customs Service Volleyball Club, who secured a place in the Round of 16.

APR began brightly, showing early intent in a high-stakes opener, but defensive lapses and shaky reception quickly handed control to Petrojet, who cruised to a 25-18 win in the first set.

Head coach Sammy Mulinge attempted to shake things up in the second set, introducing Samuel Niyonshima for James Achuil, while Willy Mucyo switched to the right side alongside Yves Mutabazi. 

The tactical tweaks, however, did little to slow Petrojet’s rhythm as the Egyptians replicated their first-set dominance with another 25-18 victory.

APR mounted a stronger challenge in the third set, with Niyonshima leading a spirited offensive push. 

But crucial defensive errors at key moments proved decisive, allowing Petrojet to edge a tense 29-27 finish and complete the sweep.

Elsewhere in Group A, Uganda’s Nemo Stars Volleyball Club secured second place with a convincing 3-0 (25-21, 25-16, 25-12) win over DR Congo’s Litto Team.

In Group B, defending giants Al Ahly Volleyball Club maintained a flawless run, brushing aside AS INJS of Côte d'Ivoire in straight sets, while Rwanda’s Kepler Volleyball Club continued their impressive form with a 3-1 victory over Equity Bank.

Group C delivered one of the tournament’s most thrilling encounters as Police Volleyball Club edged Kenya Ports Authority in a five-set battle to remain unbeaten. 

Morocco’s Faith Union Volleyball Club also impressed, overcoming the Ghana Army in another dramatic five-set contest.

In Group D, Rwanda Energy Group Volleyball Club (REG) and Cameroon’s Port Autonome de Douala Volleyball Club both recorded straight-sets victories to underline their credentials heading into the knockout phase.

With the group stage concluded, attention now shifts to the Round of 16, where APR, Petrojet, Nemo Stars, and Nigeria Customs will represent Group A. 

The knockout rounds begin on Wednesday, April 29, as teams battle for continental supremacy.
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