The second phase of the national Beach Volleyball tournament kicked off on January 3 at the scenic King Fisher Resort in Rwesero. The three-day event has attracted 12 teams in the men’s category and 10 in the women’s fray, promising thrilling matches and intense competition. The opening day of the tournament was filled with electrifying action as teams battled it out before enthusiastic spectators. In the men's category, Mandela Nzirimo and Revis Niyikiza showcased resilience to come from a set down and beat Ronald Muvara and Sylvester Ndayisaba in a thrilling 2-1 comeback. The match saw Nzirimo and Niyikiza overturn a narrow 22-20 first set loss to dominate the next two sets 21-14 and 15-11. Barnabas Tugume and Peacemaker Twagirayezu also delivered a strong performance, overcoming Crispin Ntanteteri and Elphas Makuto in a closely contested 2-1 win. Despite losing the first set 14-21, Tugume and Twagirayezu staged a dramatic comeback, clinching the following sets 21-19 and 15-10 respectively. Elsewhere, Paul Akan and Koita Jahara made quick work of their opponents Santere Mugisha and Fabrice Irankunda, winning in straight sets (21-15, 21-8) to secure a spot in the next round. The last match in the men’s category saw Olivier Ntagengwa and Patrick Kavalo Akumuntu claim a hard-fought 2-1 victory against David Neeke and Paul Muyisenge. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Ntagengwa and Akumuntu taking the first set 21-15. They, however, slipped in the second set and lost it 18-21 but held on to avoid an upset, sealing the game with a decisive 15-10 third set win. ALSO READ: Munezero, Mukandayisenga win national Beach Volleyball tour In the women’s category, Sharon Amito and Penelope Musabyimana delivered an emphatic 2-0 victory over Aliane Nirere and Francoise Yankurije (21-11, 21-19). Their aggressive attacking style left little room for their opponents to recover. Valentine Munezero and Benitha Mukandayisenga put on a dominant display against Chantal Byukusenge and Chartine Kayitesi, cruising to a 2-0 win (21-5, 21-7). The match underscored Munezero and Mukandayisenga’s formidable teamwork and precision. However, it wasn’t a victorious day for all, as Albertine Uwilingiyimana and Sandra Ayepoa faced a tough challenge against Iris Ndagijimana and Sande Meldinah. Ndagijimana and Meldinah maintained control throughout the match, winning the game 21-16, 21-13. Fans eagerly anticipate the next two days of competition, which are expected to bring more thrilling matches and surprises.
