Puerto Rico defeats Cuba in five sets

COLIMA, Mexico, August 5, 2025 – Puerto Rico defeated Cuba 3-2 (25-27, 25-21, 21-25, 25-21, 15-12) in what was the most hard-fought match of the XXII Women’s Pan American Volleyball Cup being held in the city of Colima, Mexico.

Cuba led in attacks 66-65, and in blocks 19-16, while Puerto Rico was stronger in serves 7-3.

Puerto Rico's offense was led by Diana Reyes with 19 points, followed by Karla Santos with 18, while Dariana Hollingsworth and Paola Santiago contributed 17 and 12 respectively.

For Cuba, captain Dezirett Madan and Laura Suarez each added 21 points, followed by Yanisleidis Sánchez with 18, Ivy May Vila tallied 13 , and Dayana Martínez added 11 points.

Juan Carlos Núñez, Puerto Rico’s coach: “Our games against Cuba are always emotional. They were coming off a good game against Peru, so we knew the opponent we were facing. We had our ups and downs, but when we started serving better and controlling the blocking, we were able to play more. They have a very strong team, but we were able to come from behind, which is important, and gain this experience.”

Manuel Torres, Cuba’s coach: “It was a hard-fought match, either team deserved to win, they fought until the end, but it wasn't possible. I must congratulate the team because they're meshing together day by day, and little by little, we'll see the results.”