Belize stops Nicaragua

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, June 25, 2019 -  Belize surprised Nicaragua and won 3-1 (25-19, 15-25, 25-13, 25-16), thanks to its attack and reach in the net achieving its first win of the IV U23 Women’s Central American Championship, while the Nicaraguans have a 2-1 mark.

Fatoumata Camara with 18 points was the best for Belize that showed strength in the attack 41-29, as well as in service 10-5, while Mia Musa contributed 14 units. Nicaragua had in Naomi Smith its best scorer with 11 points and Masiel Brenes had 8, seven of them in blocking, element in which the hosts dominated 11-6, especially in the second set.

Belize added 33 points from the opponent's mistakes while committing 28.

José Fontes, coach of Belize: "The key was that we concentrated, we had a rest day after our first defeat and we emphasized in concentration. We knew that they could leave the bad moment, and worked in a strong service, improve the defensive aspects and especially strength in the attack."

"They managed to enjoy the game on this beautiful stage and with this audience that encouraged the locals. It's a triumph that gives us life and increases our chances of being in the fight."

Claudia Noguera, coach of Nicaragua: "We knew it was difficult because of the high blocking of Belize and they played fast balls, that caused us to fail in the blocking, that did not work, only in the second set we managed to accommodate ...."

"We did not manage to maintain the rhythm of the game, they went out of focus and made many mistakes in attack and reception."

Nicaragua rests on Wednesday and Belize (1-1) will face Panama (0-3) at 4:30 p.m.