Abouelyazeid’s offence advance Egypt’s edge over Kazakhstan Abouelyazeid’s offence advance Egypt’s edge over Kazakhstan

Egypt relied on the stellar performance of Mohamed Abouelyazeid, who notched 15 points to secure a hard-fought 3-1 (25-21, 25-23, 16-25, 25-19) victory over Kazakhstan in men’s sitting volleyball at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games in North Paris Arena on Monday.

Abouelyazeid’s 15 points came from a well-rounded performance that included 10 attacks, three blocks, and two service aces. His efforts were complemented by captain Hesham Elshwikh, who added 11 points, all from attacks. Despite Kazakhstan’s Perdebay Namuratov putting up an impressive 26 points, his efforts fell short as Egypt’s strong net defence and efficient play sealed the win.

Egypt started strong in the opening set, establishing an early lead thanks to Abouelyazeid’s timely blocks and attacks. As the set progressed, Kazakhstan fought back with Namuratov’s powerful serves narrowing the gap to 23-21. However, Egypt remained composed under pressure. A crucial attack error by Yerbolat Altayev gave Egypt set point, and Elshwikh capitalised with a decisive attack, securing the set for Egypt at 25-21.

The second set was a closely contested battle, with the scoreline reflecting the intensity on the court. Egypt initially took a lead with Elshwikh and Abouelyazeid continuing their attacking prowess, but Kazakhstan stayed within striking distance, keeping the score tight at 21-21. The turning point came when Kazakhstan’s Bitemirov Yerlan committed an attack error, giving Egypt a crucial 24-22 advantage. Abouelyazeid then delivered the winning blow with a powerful spike, clinching the set 25-23.

Kazakhstan regrouped in the third set, showing resilience and determination. Namuratov led the charge, helping Kazakhstan to an early lead with a series of powerful spikes and precise serves, pushing the score to 15-9. Egypt struggled to counter Kazakhstan’s momentum, with errors piling up. Despite a late attempt by Abouelyazeid to close the gap, Kazakhstan maintained their dominance and secured the set with a commanding 25-16 victory, the final point coming from a strong block by Altayev.

In the fourth set, Egypt quickly regained their form, determined to close out the match. Abouelyazeid and Elshwikh once again proved pivotal, with their combined efforts giving Egypt a 22-13 lead. Egypt capitalised on the mistakes, and a final attack error by Kazakhstan sealed the set and the match at 25-19.

Photo: WPV/Sinisa Kanizaj.