Brazil downs Dominican Republic in Junior Pan Am opener

CALI, Colombia, November 26, 2021. - Brazil downed Dominican Republic 3-0 (25-21, 25-19, 25-16) at the Junior Pan American Games Cali-Valle 2021 opening match at Evangelista Mora Coliseum.  

Brazil held a huge margin in attacks 44-29 and 11-2 in blocks to prevail over Dominican Republic in pool B of the tournament; while Dominicans held a 3-2 margin in serves and committed fewer errors 18 against 22.

Outside hitter Adriano Fernandes led Brazil with 14 points all on kills, joined by outside hitter Lucas Figueiredo and outside hitter and captain Joao Cordiero with 11 points apiece. Outside hitter Bryan Turbides of Dominican Republic led all scorers with 18 points, including 2 aces.

Brazil’s next opponent in pool B is Chile, while Mexico faces Dominican Republic on day two of the event.

Joao Cordeiro, captain of Brazil: “Our game system made the difference; our attacks were outstanding over the Dominican Republic. I believe our receiving needs to improve as well as our defense, but we are training to perform well during the championship”.

Renan Dal Zotto head coach of Brazil: “The first match is always difficult, there is tension, pressure and one wants to begin well. Today winning three to zero is very important, we won five valuable points. We expect to improve with each match”.

Luis David Reinoso, captain of Dominican Republic: “This wasn’t our best match; I know we will improve for our upcoming matches. Our energy was low. I think we have what it takes to beat them and if we face them again we will”.

Alexander Gutiérrez, head coach of Dominican Republic: “The difference of Brazil’s performance and experience was visible; we faced the number two team of the world and number one of America, which was a huge burden for my players. We showed that we have improved, Dominican volleyball is growing. We played two good sets, unfortunately we weren’t able to keep up the rhythm in the third, but that is part of the preparation of a young team and in some years we won’t commit the same errors”.