Costa Rica Opens NORCECA Girls’ U19 in Dominant Fashion

SAN JOSÉ, Costa Rica, July 19, 2026. – Costa Rica opened its campaign at the NORCECA Girls’ U19 Continental Championship in dominant fashion with a straight-set 3-0 (25-11, 25-15, 25-15) victory over Jamaica in the match that closed the opening day of competition and kicked off Pool C action.

The hosts took control from the opening set with a strong offensive performance and effective serving. Although Jamaica showed flashes of competitiveness, particularly at the net with its blocking, Costa Rica remained in command throughout the match to secure its first tournament victory with little trouble.

Costa Rica built its win behind a dominant offensive display, holding a commanding 38-10 advantage in attacks while also leading in aces (6-3). Jamaica held a slight edge in blocks (4-1), but the hosts were more consistent and capitalized on their opponents' mistakes, as Jamaica committed 30 unforced errors compared to Costa Rica's 24.

Luciana Vargas led Costa Rica's offense with 15 points, while Charlotte Martínez added 10. Marissa Johnson was Jamaica's leading scorer with four points.

Costa Rica will be off on the second day of competition before returning to face Canada in a match that could prove decisive in the battle for first place in Pool C. Jamaica, meanwhile, will take on Canada on Monday.

After the match, Costa Rica head coach Yuliana González said: “We took a good first step. We had been preparing for this match and achieved the result we wanted. Now we have to focus on our next opponent. We have spent a lot of time working together as a team through practices and friendly matches, and the results of that preparation were evident today. We hope to show the same level against Canada.”

Jamaica head coach Yolanda Miller commented: “It was a very difficult first match, but I really liked the confidence the girls showed on the court. Against Costa Rica, we did everything we could. I think the positive aspects of our performance were our communication throughout the match and the energy the team displayed.”