By Bev Oden

The FloVolleyball Olympics Rankings will count down to the start of the indoor volleyball competition in Rio by highlighting one team per gender each day. Today, 11 days before the first serve, we profile the No. 11-ranked Egyptian men and Puerto Rican women.

COUNTRY: Egypt

TOP PLAYERS

Ahmed Afifi, Outside Hitter
Mamdouh Abdelrehim, Middle Blocker
Hossam Abdalla, Setter (Second-best server in World League Group 2)

RISING STAR TO WATCH

Ahmed Elkotb | 25 | Opposite
Best scorer in World League Group 2

SYNOPSIS

Egypt just missed out on going to London for the 2012 Olympic Games by losing to Tunisia in the African continental qualifier. But they got revenge this year when they upset Tunisia 16-14 in the fifth set of a thrilling final to qualify for Rio. Their skill level has come a long way since their last Olympic appearance in 2008, and subsequently they've earned inclusion in major events like World League the last two years. They won Group 3 in 2015 and advanced to better competition in Group 2 this year, but were disappointed with a 4-5 record and middle-of-the-pack finish. They believe injuries and subpar play led to the poor performance and have vowed to bring their "A" game to Rio.

PREDICTION

The six-time African champions have good size, but are slow-footed and will have a difficult time keeping pace with the lightning-quick offenses they'll see across the net. They can succeed with tough serving and by keeping opponents out of rhythm. Their best chance for a win will come against the streaky Cuban team. They may take a few sets from Argentina and Iran, but wins in those matches are unlikely. Their Olympic Games will end after the preliminary round.

FloVolleyball Men's 2016 Olympics Rankings

12. Mexico

11. Egypt

 

10. Cuba 

 

9. Canada