Great Debut for Panama at the AFECAVOL U19 Central American Championship

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, December 9, 2024.- Panama earned an epic victory by defeating Costa Rica in five intense sets, 3-2 (27-25, 25-23, 22-25, 25-27, 16-14), in their opening match of the 15th AFECAVOL U19 Men’s Central American Volleyball Championship.

The first challenge of the second day of the event was intense from start to finish, with Panama’s squad determined to secure the win, while Costa Rica fought to the very end.

After winning the first two sets, Panama was overwhelmed by a strengthened Costa Rica. However, Costa Rica's efforts were not enough to counter Panama’s fierce attack.

ÁLBUM CRC VS PAN

Panama focused all their efforts on offense, collecting 63 points compared to Costa Rica’s 55. They also led in service aces 3-1, while Costa Rica outperformed in blocking 10-8. Costa Rica gave away 41 points through unforced errors, compared to Panama's 48.

Víctor Pérez was instrumental in Panama’s victory, scoring 30 points, including 27 attacks, 2 blocks, and one service ace. Víctor Araúz added 19 points. For Costa Rica, Ignacio Sánchez led with 22 points, supported by Jeremy Vanega with 18.

With this result, Panama earned their first victory, while Costa Rica's record now stands at 1-1.

Reflecting on the triumph, Víctor Pérez, Panama’s captain, said: “Costa Rica is a highly competitive team. They gave us a tough battle and managed to recover after losing the first two sets. They are a very tenacious team. The key for us was staying positive, supporting each other, and staying focused on the game.”

Meanwhile, Edser Barrantes, Costa Rica’s captain, commented: “We’re leaving with mixed feelings. We didn’t do things well, even though we gave it our all. Volleyball is like this, sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. We were so close to coming back in this match, and that fifth set was excellent. Things aren’t over for us yet; our goal is still to reach the podium.”