Mexico Stays Undefeated with Straight-Set Win over Guatemala

ASUNCIÓN, Paraguay, August 18, 2025. – Mexico defeated Guatemala 3-0 (25-11, 25-17, 25-23) to remain unbeaten in Pool A of the men’s volleyball tournament at the II Junior Pan American Games Asunción 2025, held at the Paraguayan Olympic Committee (COP) Arena.

With a 2-0 record, Mexico will play its final pool match against hosts Paraguay, while Guatemala (1-1) will face Colombia.

The Mexican squad controlled the match from the start, taking the first set with a huge margin and showcasing four different scorers leading the offense. Their blocking game was key to establishing the early advantage.

In the second set, Guatemala fought back and tied the score at 9 points, led by Yefferson Zavala and capitalizing on Mexico’s errors. However, the power of Alexis Alvarado, Jared Toy, and Leonardo Maldonado allowed Mexico to regain control and extend the lead to go up 2-0 in the match.

The third set was the most competitive. With lineup adjustments, Guatemala stayed close and engaged in a battle at the net between Jerry Durán and Lorenzo Martínez. Pablo Pérez and Daniel Ralón tied the score at 15, and later Guatemala leveled again at 21. Still, attacks from Bryan Vásquez and Diego Ruiz pushed Mexico ahead (24-22). Although Guatemala closed the gap, a reception error sealed the win for Mexico.

Mexico held the advantage in attacks (46-30), blocks (7-2), and aces (3-2), while also committing fewer errors (17-19).

Mexico’s outside hitter Jared Toy led all scorers with 17 points, while Pablo Pérez topped Guatemala with 12. They were the only players to reach double digits.

Jared Toy said: “We were solid and kept a good level of play, but we made mistakes because we got too confident. We need to keep working on our rhythm and focus on staying focused. I’m grateful for every opportunity I get on the court, and I always give my best.”

Pablo Pérez added: “The third set was better for us. I came in as opposite in the second, and in the third with the setter change (Daniel Ralón) we understood each other better. Our reception improved and we were able to move the ball more effectively. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to extend the match.”