Colombia Tops Mexico to Book Direct

Semifinal Berth at Santo Domingo 2026

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, August 4, 2026. – Colombia claimed first place in Pool A and a direct berth in the semifinals of the women's volleyball tournament at the 25th Central American and Caribbean Games Santo Domingo 2026 with a convincing 3-0 (25-18, 25-18, 25-21) victory over Mexico.

Colombia completed pool play undefeated to advance directly to the semifinals, while second-place Mexico will compete in the quarterfinal round.

Colombia controlled the match from the opening set behind an efficient offense and consistent defense, taking the first two sets by identical 25-18 scores. Mexico mounted a stronger challenge in the third set and stayed within striking distance, but Colombia closed out the match in straight sets.

Although Mexico held a slight edge in blocks (10-9), Colombia led in attacks (38-34) and service points (4-1). The difference came from Colombia capitalizing on 24 Mexican errors while committing only 12 of its own.

Laura Grajales led Colombia's offense with 15 points, followed by Ivonne Montaño with 14. For Mexico, Sofía Maldonado scored 11 points and Uxue Guereca added 10.

Colombia head coach Guilherme Schmitz praised his team's effort after securing a direct place in the semifinals.

"I congratulate my team for reaching the semifinals once again. We didn't start the competition very well, but we were coming off a very tough South American Cup. I'm happy with the victory and with advancing to the semifinals. Tomorrow we'll rest, work in the gym, which is very important, and study our next opponent."

Mexico head coach Nicola Negro was critical of his team's performance.

"Today I saw a kind of volleyball that is not the volleyball of my team. The result reflects our performance. Today we stepped onto the court playing a style of volleyball that I do not want to see."