Heartbreak for Ghana as beach volleyball teams fall short in bid for World Championship spot

Ghana’s senior national beach volleyball teams saw their hopes of reaching the 2025 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships dashed after bowing out in the Round of 16 at the CAVB Beach Volleyball Continental Championship in Martil Beach, Morocco.

Held from 25-29 June, the tournament was Ghana’s chance to secure a spot in the prestigious World Championships in Australia.

But despite spirited performances, both the men’s and women’s teams fell short at the knockout stages.

Men’s team: Glimmers of promise

The pair of Paul Akan and Abdul Hameed Ibrahim emerged as Ghana’s standout performers, cruising through their group unbeaten.

They secured convincing 2-0 wins over Kenya and Nigeria, setting up a Round of 16 clash with Mozambique.

After a dominant 21-13 first-set victory, Ghana looked on course for a quarter-final berth. But Mozambique fought back fiercely, taking the next two sets 11-21, 12-15 to end Akan and Ibrahim’s campaign.

Meanwhile, Emmanuel Adamitey and Nicholas Tetteh battled into the Round of 24, overcoming Kenya in a thrilling 2-1 comeback (14-21, 21-18, 15-7).

However, their journey was halted by Morocco’s silver medallists, Zouheir El-Graoui and Mohamed Ilias Rhouni Lazaar, who overpowered them 21-16, 21-14.

Women’s team: Early exit

Ghana’s women’s teams faced a tougher challenge. Grace Dagadu and Joana Mensah struggled in Pool F, failing to secure a win against opponents from Mozambique, Rwanda, and The Gambia, finishing bottom of their group.

Rashaka Katadat and Benedicta Akorli fared better, finishing second in Pool E after strong showings against Egypt and Burundi.

Yet, their tournament ended in the group stage, dashing hopes of progressing further.

What’s next for Ghana beach volleyball?

While the teams fell short of World Championship qualification, their performances—particularly Akan and Ibrahim’s unbeaten group run—show promise for future competitions.

For now, Ghana’s beach volleyball stars will regroup, with sights set on upcoming regional and continental tournaments to rebuild momentum.