Mexico Prevails over Dominican Republic for Second Straight-Set Win

Mexico Prevails over Dominican Republic

LEÓN, Guanajuato, August 27, 2025. – Mexico defeated the Dominican Republic 3-0 (25-20, 25-19, 25-19) to earn their second straight-set victory at the Men’s Pan American Volleyball Cup, being held at the Domo de la Feria in León, Guanajuato.

The top spot in Pool C will be decided on Thursday in the clash between Mexico and Chile, both undefeated so far in the tournament. Meanwhile, the Dominican Republic will close the preliminary round against Suriname, with both teams still seeking their first win.

Mexico took the lead in the opening set with powerful attack from Franky Hernández and a solid block by Axel Téllez against Dominican captain Héctor Cruz, securing the early advantage.

In the second set, the home team doubled their rivals in points (10-5) thanks to consecutive attacks from Alexis Garay, supported by Mauro Fuentes, effectively containing the efforts of Luis Reinoso and Luther Rosario.

The Dominican Republic came out strong in the third set, going up 6-3 behind solid blocking from Rafael Burgos and Cruz. However, Mexico turned the score around and, with an effective performance from Téllez, extended the gap to four points (20-16). With Garay leading the offense and Téllez dominant at the net, the hosts sealed the win after a Dominican error.

Mexico’s superiority in attack (47-29) was crucial to the victory. The home side also held the edge in serving (4-0) and had a slight advantage in blocking (5-4). The Dominican Republic committed fewer unforced errors (19 to Mexico’s 25).

Alexis Garay led Mexico with 14 points, all from attacks. Téllez contributed 11 (6 attacks, 2 blocks, 3 aces), while Hernández added 10. For the Caribbean team, captain Héctor Cruz was the only player in double digits with 10 points.

After the victory, Alexis Garay said: “We were able to analyze the Dominican Republic in our stats session and focused on the details our coach pointed out – like adjusting our blocking to the lines. Tomorrow, we finish against Chile; they are a great team, we know each other well, and we expect a great match.”