Cuba join semifinal round

CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico, July 18, 2012 – Cuba cruised to a straight-set (25-18, 25-13, 25-20) over Argentina on Wednesday advancing to a semifinal clash with defending champions Brazil in the XI Women’s Pan American Cup.

Yanelis Santos was Cuba’s top scorer with 19 points, including 5 aces and 4 blocks. Gyselle Silva, Rosanna Giel and Wilma Salas followed with 13, 12 and 10 respectively. Lucia Fresco topped Argentina with 11 points.

Cuba held advantages of 11-3 and 10-1 in blocks and aces respectively.

“We played almost perfect with very few mistakes,” Cuba’s Yusidey Silie stated. “It was a game of typical Cuban volleyball. As semifinalists we achieved our main goal of qualifying to the World Grand Prix.”

“It is always very difficult to play against Cuba, a team with a lot of power,” Argentina’s Emilce Sosa commented. “It wasn’t a good game for us and I hope we can finish playing better.”

“The loss to Canada created some concern in our team but they came back with a strong mentality,” Cuba’s Juan Carlos Gala said. “The serve and reception worked very well for us.”

“Cuba has evolved positively lately, are playing very well and can beat anybody,” Argentina’s Horacio Bastit said. “Today they played terrific defense.”