Mexico defeats Canada in straight sets

at NORCECA Men’s Final Six

PONCE, Puerto Rico, October 8th, 2025.- Mexico overcame the pressure from Canada to defeat them in straight sets (25-18, 25-19, 25-19) and secured their second victory at NORCECA Men’s Final Six.

After a very tight start to the first set, Mexico managed to break Canada’s pressure and secured an advantage in the closing moments with three aces from their middle blocker Juan Salvador García, closing the set 25-18. Canada kept pushing at the start of the second set, but Mexico prevailed and won 25-19. Mexico maintained control throughout the third set and sealed the match with a 25-19 win.

Mexico dominated in attacks 38-24, but Canada outperformed in blocks 4-3 and serves 7-6. Mexico scored 28 points from Canada’s unforced errors while giving up 21 points. 

Opposite Ridl Alexis Garay and outside hitter Yasutaka Sanay from Mexico were the match leaders with 11 points each, while outside hitter Liam Pauls was Canada’s top scorer with 10 points.

Next, Mexico will play Dominican Republic while Canada will face host team Puerto Rico.

Matthew Siebenga, middle blocker of Canada: “It was awesome playing against Mexico, it was a good match. They're a big and strong team. I thought our captain did really well, and we had good energy throughout the entire match, even when we were trailing. I think we did a good job overall. We just need to improve our serve and reception. We have to correct a couple of errors, but other than that, I thought we played really well. We just need to minimize their service runs and strengthen ours.”

Ridl Alexis Garay, opposite of Mexico: “We knew Canada always brings strong teams to these events, and we wanted to win. I think the team came out with that desire and thank God we got the result and we're happy. We made some mistakes, but we managed to recover, and that’s very important because there are more games ahead. We have to keep improving overall. The team needs to continue growing and give its all in every match.”