Kenyan outside hitter Nicholas Matui powered Rwanda Energy Group (REG) to a bronze medal at the Africa Men’s Volleyball Club Championship with win over Petrojet in four sets (25–21, 25–21, 13–25, 25–21) in third-place match held at BK Arena on Saturday.
Matui delivered a standout performance with 19 points, to help REG become the third Rwandan club to reach the podium, after Gisagara VC in 2022 and Police VC who reached the final of the continental tournament in Kigali.
REG set the tone early, combining composure with aggressive attacking play. Matui led the charge with powerful spikes, while Petrojet struggled to contain REG’s offensive line. Merci Gisubizo played a key supporting role, contributing both in attack and at the net defensively, as REG claimed the opening set 25–21.
In the second set, captain Thon Maker Madol stepped up to steady the team. Tactical adjustments from the bench—including a brief substitution of middle blocker Emmy Twagirayezu—proved effective, as he returned with stronger defensive presence. Setter Crispin Ntanteteri orchestrated play intelligently, mixing up attacks and even adding a few surprise points of his own, helping REG secure another 25–21 win.
Petrojet responded emphatically in the third set, racing into an early lead and at one point holding REG scoreless. The Egyptians capitalized on their momentum to dominate the set 25–13.
However, REG regrouped in the fourth set, showing resilience and renewed control of the tempo. Despite Petrojet’s push to force a decider, REG held firm, closing out the set 25–21 to seal the match and the bronze medal.
"People didn’t believe in us; we came in as underdogs,” said Ntanteteri after the match. "Now we’ve proven that not only Rwanda, but East Africa can compete at this level. This medal is well deserved. We thank the government and everyone who supported us.”
REG’s podium finish caps an impressive tournament for Rwandan clubs. Police VC are set to represent the country in the final against Al Ahly, while Kepler VC finished seventh and APR VC placed 11th.
Final match
Police VC vs Al Ahly VC – 8pm