The 47th CAVB Men’s Club Championship reached a thrilling climax on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the BK Arena in Kigali.
As teams battled for continental glory, a select group of elite athletes rose to the occasion, defining the tournament through offensive dominance, defensive resilience, and tactical mastery.
Here are the standout performers who etched their names into the 2026 Dream Team:
Receiver Attacker: Eissa Elhossiny (Al Ahly)
Named both Best Receiver Attacker and Most Valuable Player (MVP), Elhossiny was the heartbeat of the championship-winning side.
He displayed a rare, flawless balance between pinpoint reception and explosive attacking, consistently keeping Al Ahly on the front foot during high-pressure rallies.
Middle Blocker: Frank Shyaka (Police)
Shyaka emerged as the tournament’s biggest revelation. Patrolling the net with relentless energy, the Middle Blocker provided a formidable first line of defence, making it nearly impossible for opposing attackers to find a rhythm against his well-timed blocks.
Opposite: Jose Masso Alvarez (Al Ahly)
The Cuban-born Opposite Attacker was a class apart. Bringing elite experience from the South Korean league, Alvarez provided the Egyptian giants with undeniable firepower.
Averaging 18 points per match, his technical ability to dismantle organised blocks was the X-factor that secured Al Ahly’s continental dominance.
Outside Hitter: Nicholas Matues (REG)
Representing Rwanda Energy Group (REG) Volleyball Club, the Kenyan Outside Hitter was a force of nature.
Matues was instrumental in dragging REG to a podium finish, earning the Best Outside Attacker award for his ability to score in transition and lead his team through a gruelling third-place battle.
Libero: Alain Irakoze (Police VC)
While the highlights often favour the hitters, Irakoze’s performance was nothing short of breathtaking.
Awarded Best Libero, his athleticism and floor coverage were masterclasses in defensive discipline.
His ability to pull off spectacular digs and stabilise the backcourt under heavy fire allowed Police to transition into clinical counter-attacks.
Setter: Brian Melly Kipkirui (Police)
Kipkirui was the architect behind the Police’s impressive run to the finals. The Kenyan setter dictated the tempo of every match with composure and tactical intelligence.
His precision not only maximised his hitters’ efficiency but his aggressive service and net coordination kept opponents perpetually off-balance.
CAVB Men’s Club Championship: Dream Team
| Award | Player | Club |
|---|---|---|
| Most Valuable Player | Eissa Elhossiny | Al Ahly (EGY) |
| Best Receiver Attacker | Eissa Elhossiny | Al Ahly (EGY) |
| Best Opposite Attacker | Jose Masso Alvarez | Al Ahly (EGY) |
| Best Outside Hitter | Nicholas Matues | REG (RWA) |
| Best Middle Blocker | Frank Shyaka | Police (RWA) |
| Best Setter | Brian Melly Kipkirui | Police (RWA) |
| Best Libero | Alain Irakoze | Police (RWA) |
