Argentina sweeps Cuba in first victory at Lima 2019

LIMA, Peru, July 31, 2019.- Argentina swept Cuba 3-0 (28-26, 25-22, 25-22) in their first victory at the Lima 2019 Pan American Games on opening day at the Multisport Complex El Callao.

Despite Cuba’s solid 10-5 blocking advantage, Argentina subdued Cuba’s hitters in pool A as the party of points in the first set was intense. Both teams scored 47 points on attacks and Argentina scored on 25 points on opponent errors while limiting their own to 13.

Outside hitter Nicolás Bruno led Argentina with 14 points on 13 kills and one block, followed by middle blocker Gaston Fernandez and outside hitter Lisandro Zanotti with 9 points each. Cuba used a balanced attacking offense between outside hitters Marlon Yant (15 pts.), Miguel Lopez (14 pts.) and Osniel Mergarejo (11 pts.).

Argentina (1-0) will face host Peru (0-1) on day two of the Pan American Games, and Cuba (0-1) will play against Puerto Rico (1-0).

Comments:

Nicolás Bruno, captain of Argentina: “The game was intense, both of us played at their highest level, it was interesting and we were stubborn in keeping our level to win in three sets. Yes there were errors, normal at the beginning of a tournament. This is a short event, so can’t miss anything”.

Horacio Dileo, Head coach of Argentina: “We needed to be tactical against them (Cuba) because they are stronger and better attackers. I believe it was a splendid tactical performance on our side, not easy to do against Cuba that has a high-leveled attack, we served well and our defense was strong as well, we have to correct in counterattacking”. 

Marlon Yant, top scorer of Cuba: “We lacked some technical things that need to be corrected as the tournament develops and I believe we can improve. This is only one loss, our goal is set on winning a medal and tomorrow we will go out to look for the victory”.