Cuba Earns First Victory at Santo Domingo

2026 with Straight-Set Win over Guatemala

 

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, July 26, 2026. – Cuba claimed its first victory in the men's volleyball tournament at the 25th Central American and Caribbean Games Santo Domingo 2026, defeating Guatemala in straight sets, 3-0 (25-15, 25-16, 25-12), on the second day of Pool A competition at the Professor Ricardo Gioriver Arias Volleyball Palace.

 

Cuba improved to a 1-1 record, while Guatemala remained winless at 0-2. On the final day of pool play, Cuba will face Venezuela in a key match for qualification, while Guatemala will take on Puerto Rico.

 

After suffering an opening-day defeat, the Cuban squad responded with a dominant performance, relying on an effective service game and a solid blocking effort. Cuba controlled the match throughout the three sets, never allowing Guatemala to establish offensive rhythm.

 

The statistics reflected Cuba's superiority, leading Guatemala in attacks (44-22), blocks (9-2), and aces (11-0), although Guatemala committed fewer unforced errors (9-19).

Opposite Daniel Martínez led the Cuban offense with 18 points, including five aces. Outside hitter Marlon Yant and middle blocker Alexis Wilson each added 10 points.

 

Guatemalan opposite Andy Leonardo finished as his team's top scorer with 13 points, all on kills.

 

Following Cuba's victory, Daniel Martínez said: “We served very well, worked effectively on defense and blocking. After yesterday's match, we felt more in sync as a team. I hope we can keep playing this way and advance to the next round.”

 

Andy Leonardo reflected on Guatemala's performance: “Personally, I feel very good with the team and the coaching staff. Since the previous tournament, we've all worked hard and have been performing well. We continue to show the 'Guatemalan' fighting spirit. Today we faced a very strong team with a highly competitive level. I'm grateful to my teammates for fighting hard and putting in a good performance. We're doing things very well.”