Dominican Republic Returns to U23 Pan American Cup Final

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, September 5, 2026.- The Dominican Republic returned to the final of the NORCECA U23 Women’s Pan American Cup after a two-year absence, following a straight-set 3-0 (25-15, 25-11, 25-10) victory over Nicaragua. On Sunday, they will face defending champion United States for the gold medal.

The Dominican team closed the preliminary round with a 3-2 record, the same as Mexico and Canada, but the point standings gave the Dominican Republic the berth in the final. The Dominican Republic finished with 18 points, Mexico with 16 and Canada with 14.

Costa Rica and Nicaragua will meet for positions 5-6 on Sunday at 1:00 p.m., followed by the bronze medal match between Mexico and Canada at 3:00 p.m. The United States and the Dominican Republic will close the tournament with the gold medal match at 5:00 p.m. at the Polideportivo Alexis Argüello.

In the preliminary round, the United States defeated the Dominican Republic 3-1. The Dominican Republic is the most successful team in the history of the U23 Women’s Pan American Cup, with six gold medals and one silver in eight editions. However, in 2025, the Dominican team finished fifth, outside the podium occupied by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The Dominican Republic once again imposed its presence at the net against Nicaragua, holding a commanding 12-1 advantage in blocks. The Dominicans also led 40-22 in attacks and 5-1 in aces. Nicaragua committed 18 errors compared to 12 by the Dominican Republic.

Alondra Tapia led the Dominican Republic with 18 points, Katielle Alonzo contributed 12 and Selanny Puente added 11. Norma Brenes finished with five points for Nicaragua.

Wagner Pacheco, head coach of the Dominican Republic: “I’m very happy. It had been two years since we were in the final. We have six U23 titles, and I had been waiting a long time to reach another final. The team is focused on tomorrow. We want to take this gold home to our families, to the players and their families. We are very happy. Last year we finished fifth, but it was good because we developed the team that won bronze at the Junior Pan American Games. This time we had more preparation time, they have improved a lot, and we are happy to be in a final.”

Alondra Tapia, Dominican Republic’s top scorer: “We’re happy because we made it to the final, and it’s something we really wanted. We have worked hard, and after all the sacrifices we’ve made, we’re here now and we’re going for the gold.”

Claudia Noguera, head coach of Nicaragua: “All these matches are important for the development of the players. This is another level, and they have to bring out the best in themselves for future events. Tomorrow, we have another match against Costa Rica, and I think they’re ready. They know what they can do, and they’ll go all out for it.”