Canada Score Second Win at NORCECA U21

NOGALES, Mexico, June 12, 2024. - Canada scored their second victory in the U21 Men's NORCECA Championship after defeating Guatemala 3-0 (26-24, 25-19, 25-17) on Wednesday in Nogales, Mexico.

Canada has a 2-0 record in pool B and will conclude the preliminary round on Thursday against Cuba. Guatemala (0-2) will face Puerto Rico.

Canada outperformed Guatemala 44-30 in attacks, 12-1 in blocks, and 2-1 in aces. Guatemala committed fewer errors than Canada (18-28).

Canadian opposite hitter Daniil Hershtynovich led his team with 12 points from 8 attacks, 3 blocks, and one ace. Outside hitter Piers de Greeff added 11 points from 9 attacks and 2 blocks. Kai Boyko finished with 7 points.

Guatemala's team captain, Roberto Recinos, scored 12 points, with a match-high of 11 attacks and one block. Opposite hitter Luis Mendizábal contributed 7 points.

Canada's errors worked to Guatemala's advantage, allowing them to steal a set point before the extended finish in the first set. Canada remained inconsistent throughout the match but managed to capitalize on their blocking.

Daniil Hershtynovich, Canada’s leading scorer said: “It was a challenging first set. I think not having fans on the stands it took time for us to create energy for ourselves. That energy helped us to pull out of the first and second set. For tomorrow we want to bring great energy against, keep the same mentality no matter who we’re facing”.

Luis Mendizábal, Guatemala's opposite hitter, said: “I believe the team's attitude didn't stay consistent throughout the match. In the first set, we were closer in the score, it was tight, and we had very good energy. For tomorrow's pool-play final, I hope we can bring the same energy as yesterday. We have the team to compete, and we’re going to give it our all against Puerto Rico”.