Akapson, Adamawa Clinch Bronze as Savannah, Pillars, Kada Emeralds, Anista Others Set for President Cup Finals
The third-place matches of the ongoing 2026 President Beach Volleyball Cup were decisively concluded on Tuesday, setting the tone for what promises to be an explosive grand finale at the Murtala Mohammed Square Beach Courts in Kaduna.
In the men’s third-place playoff, Akapson VC produced a dominant performance to defeat Philric VC in straight sets, 2-0. Akapson controlled proceedings from the outset, taking the first set 21-16 with disciplined defensive play and sharp attacking combinations. They maintained the pressure in the second set, racing to a 21-13 win to seal the bronze medal in convincing fashion.
The women’s third-place encounter also ended in straight sets as Adamawa Spikers overcame Katsina 2-0. Adamawa were ruthless in the opening set, overwhelming their opponents 21-9 with aggressive serves and clinical finishing at the net. Although Katsina improved in the second set, Adamawa remained composed to close it out 21-16 and secure their place on the podium.
With the bronze medals settled, attention now shifts fully to the four finals that will determine champions in the Men, Women, U17 Boys and U17 Girls categories.
Women’s Final: Kada Emeralds vs Anista VC
The senior women’s final pits Kada Emeralds against Anista VC in what is expected to be a high-intensity clash.
Anista VC showed resilience in their semifinal, edging Katsina 2-1. After narrowly winning the first set 23-21, they dropped the second 22-20 before dominating the decider 15-6. Their ability to respond under pressure makes them a dangerous opponent.
Kada Emeralds, however, arrive in the final with confidence after dispatching Adamawa Spikers 2-0 in the semifinals. Their 21-17, 21-12 victory underlined their tactical discipline and strong court chemistry.
The final could hinge on serve reception and consistency in transition play, with both teams boasting solid defensive structures.
Men’s Final: Kano Pillars I vs Savannah Spikers
In the men’s final, Kano Pillars I will confront Savannah Spikers in a matchup between two battle-tested sides.
Kano Pillars powered past Akapson VC 2-1 in the semifinals. After a commanding 21-6 first set, they briefly lost momentum in the second (16-21) before crushing the decider 15-4. Their explosive starts and physical dominance at the net have been hallmarks of their campaign.
Savannah Spikers had to dig deep to eliminate Dynamite VC 2-1. They edged the first set 21-19, lost the second 18-21, and responded strongly with a 15-6 win in the third. Their composure in tight moments could prove decisive.
With both teams capable of rapid scoring bursts, the men’s final promises power, pace and tactical adjustments.
U17 Boys Final: Kada Prince vs Philric VC
The U17 Boys final features Kada Prince against Philric VC, two sides that survived three-set thrillers in the semifinals.
Philric VC defeated FCT 2-1, winning 21-13, losing 15-21, and sealing qualification with a 15-9 decider. Kada Prince also came from behind to beat Jikwoyi Braves 2-1, finishing strongly with a dominant 15-3 third set.
Both teams have demonstrated resilience and stamina, suggesting a closely contested youth final.
U17 Girls Final: Diamond VC vs Kogi Spikers
In the U17 Girls category, Diamond VC will take on Kogi Spikers.
Diamond VC advanced in commanding fashion, defeating Zamfara 21-11, 21-16 in straight sets. Their balanced attack and steady defense have marked them as one of the tournament’s most consistent teams.
Kogi Spikers, meanwhile, survived a dramatic 2-1 semifinal win over Anista VC, clinching the deciding set 16-14. Their fighting spirit and ability to handle high-pressure rallies could make this final a thriller.
