Puerto Rico blocks Cuba’s aspirations in a five-set battle

IRAPUATO, Mexico, August 18, 2024 - Puerto Rico defeated Cuba 3-2 (25-22, 15-25, 22-25, 28-26, 15-8) in a blocking battle that saw a total of 31 effective blocks between both teams, in the second match of Group B at the XXI Women's Pan American Volleyball Cup in Irapuato, Guanajuato, Mexico.

The Puerto Ricans won the first set but fell in the next two due to Cuba’s strong blocking. In the fourth set, both teams were tied at 26 points when a Cuban service error and an effective block by Neira Ortiz gave the set to Puerto Rico, paving the way for an easy fifth set and the win.

Puerto Rico outperformed Cuba in blocking (16-15), attacking (55-51), and serving (8-4).

Of Puerto Rico’s total blocks, six came from Neira Ortiz, who finished with 17 points, and three from Solimar Cestero, who was the top scorer with 18 points.

For Cuba, Yalain de la Peña scored 18 points, and Evilania Martínez added 16.

Puerto Rico (1-0) will play the United States on Monday at 8:00 p.m. local time, while Cuba (0-1) will face Costa Rica (0-1) at 2:00 p.m.

José Mieles, Head Coach of Puerto Rico: “It was a tough match, and we are satisfied with how the team pulled through. We made changes due to injuries, and the young players who came in, such as 17-year-old setter Daniella González, did their job, and we achieved an important victory. I think the best part was staying calm and patient; we came from behind and reached our goal”.

Shara Venegas, Captain of Puerto Rico: “I feel very happy because we managed to react. The whole team played very well, Solimar and Daniella did a great job, the outside hitters played wonderfully, and Neira had an outstanding game. I believe that, in the end, the victory was due to our teamwork.”

Leivis García, Head Coach of Cuba: “First, we have to congratulate the Puerto Rican team; they have great players and did a good job. We need to keep improving in some areas, not be overconfident, and finish sets better. I think we weren’t strong enough in the final points, and that affected us. Now, we need to work on the upcoming matches and try to correct our mistakes.”