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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, September 9,
2021 – Mexico beat Canada 3-0 (25-17, 26-24,
25-20) to claim its second gold medal in the
history of the Men’s Volleyball Pan American Cup
at Ricardo Arias Pavilion on Thursday night.
It was precisely in Santo Domingo in 2007 when
the Mexican side won the title with a victory
over Puerto Rico in four sets for what was their
only podium position in the event until
tonight’s triumph.
After losing their first two matches of the
preliminary round to United States and Canada,
the Mexicans put together a five-game winning
streak to claim the crown.
Diego Gonzalez and Josue Lopez led the Mexican
attack with 13 and 12 points, respectively.
Brodie Hofer was the only Canadian with double
figures with a match-high 14 tallies.
Jorge Azair, coach of Mexico: “It was a tough
tournament. I think USA and Canada brought more
solid teams than they took to Durango. Most of
the teams are going through transition so it
will be surprise after surprise. The good thing
is that the level is more evened. I am very
proud of my boys. This is just the beginning and
we have to keep working harder and harder.”
Ben Josephson, coach of Canada: “We enjoyed this
tournament a lot watching great teams playing
with different techniques. We had a good time.
Early in the competition Mexico had not reached
its level and they proved that it is not the way
you start but how you finish.” |
