By Oscar Pilipili and FIVB
Kenya National team is out to test the might of imposing Germany in their opening match of 2011 FIVB Women's World Cup at Nagano, Japan today.
The match between Kenya and Germany pits two teams with contrasting performances in the international scene.
Unlike Kenya who hardly play outside Africa, Germany are in a form resurgence and boast of an impressive track record.
After finishing 11th at 2006 FIVB World Championship in Japan, Germany successfully qualified for the 2008 and 2009 FIVB World Grand Prix.
In 2009, Germany managed their best finish at FIVB World Grand Prix since 2002 by claiming the bronze medal. They also reached the semi-finals at the European Championship but were unable to finish on the podium. The side slipped to 15th in the world rankings following a disappointing 2010 FIVB World Grand Prix, but climbed back to 10th place after finishing the year well by coming seventh at the FIVB Women’s World Championship.
Despite being a powerhouse in Africa, Kenya is yet to make breakthrough in FIVB events despite playing severally in World Cup and World Championships.
Their opening match against Germany will be a true test of strength, character and mental ability as the East Africans fight to make their presence felt at FIVB level.
With height being a key arsenal in modern volleyball, Germany is likely to use the advantage to override Kenyan team where the tallest player is Ruth Jepngetich at 186cm.
Germany has four of its players measuring over 190cm besides many other who are above 185cm in height. Christiane F¸rst and Kristin Kasperski are both 192cm, Kathy Radzuweit is 196cm and Berit Kauffeldt 190cm.
The youthful Kenyan side looks upon experienced captain and middle blocker Bracksides Agala to guide them against the imposing Europeans.
Agala has played professionally in Turkey and Japan and has added a lot of value in the team where she is considered as the next Dorcas Ndasaba.
Coach Paul Bitok is expected to field setter Janet Wanja, left attackers Lydia Maiyo and Mercy Moim, libero Judy Tarus and middle blocker Diana Khisa who have all played in the World Cup before and fast rising attacker Everline Makuto in his bid to contain the Germans.
All 12 teams participating in the FIVB World Cup have arrived in Japan ready for the quadrennial event, which doubles as London 2012 Olympic Games qualifying tournament.
The tournament starts in Hiroshima and Nagano before visiting four other Japanese cities – Toyama, Sapporo, Okayama and Tokyo.
Defending champions Italy have joined hosts Japan, debutants Algeria as well as Argentina, China and the Dominican Republic in Hiroshima while Olympic champions Brazil.
